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Description: The spirit of beloved artist and longtime freshART participant William “Bill” Dirkes will live on at this year’s event through the power of friendship and community. Bill, who passed peacefully on April 1, 2025, left behind a panel sketch that has been transformed into a collaborative artwork by his closest friends and fellow artists, reflecting how art connects us all.

The piece, fittingly titled "Last Ride," was entrusted by Bill to his dear friend and fellow freshARTist, Jim Conroy. Together with artists Tim Gold, Margie Lakeberg, Kim Popil Moon, Jackie Braden and Lorrie Hickey—who affectionately call themselves the “Rag Tag Artists”—Conroy and the group lovingly completed the work in Bill’s honor. With their combined talents, they brought his vision to life as a tribute to his generosity of spirit and lifelong dedication to art.

In keeping with Bill’s legacy, 100% of the proceeds from the sale of "Last Ride" will be donated in his name to Behringer-Crawford Museum’s youth education programs. His wife, Cheryl Dirkes, reflected: “He doesn’t want flowers or memorials or anything like that. Just do something that helps others.” This special collaboration fulfills that wish, ensuring that Bill’s memory continues to uplift others through creativity, learning and community.

Bill Dirkes was not only a talented commercial and fine artist, working in acrylics and oils to capture the beauty of rural life, but also a humble and generous soul who encouraged and supported those around him. From painting billboards to creating fine art, Bill gave his time, talent and heart to his community. His final wish was simply to “be good to one another,” a message beautifully carried forward by this heartfelt collaboration.