Obituary of Joseph Donn Rowand

Joseph Rowand, Creator and Director of Somerhill Gallery from 1972-2010 and formidable impresario of the regional contemporary art scene passed away on Feb. 25, a victim of the Covid virus. He was 78.

Joe’s Somerhill Gallery in Chapel Hill, which later relocated to Durham, brought together several generations of artists and aspiring art collectors in a gallery environment that was as much a social experience as a setting for conducting the business of art. Joe, bedecked in his personal interpretation of the latest fashion, entertained and enlightened the habitual and the accidental guest alike with his myriad insider stories about the art scene. Visiting Somerhill whether an exhibition opening or casual visit was an experience to be savored: Joe Rowand in full.

For nearly 40 years, some of North Carolina’s most successful and best known artists were championed by Joe. Maud Gatewood, John Beerman, Elizabeth Matheson, Bill Bernstein, Herb Jackson, Tucker Cooke, Nancy Tuttle May, and Richard Fennell were just a few of the hundreds of artists who benefited from Joe’s enthusiastic advocacy. 

Larry Wheeler, Director Emeritus of the North Carolina Museum of Art and close friend, remembers Somerhill as an essential destination for art discovery and entertainment. “Joe Rowand was a force in opening the eyes of North Carolinians to the power of art and to the desirability of having it in their lives.”  Tom Kenan, leading arts patron, philanthropist and friend, remembers Joe as a central—and colorful—leader in shaping not only the artistic taste of North Carolina but a community of celebration, as well.  Renowned photographer Elizabeth Matheson, long represented by Somerhill, recalled, “For me, as for many other North Carolina artists, Joe was a buoyant, all-stops-out advocate. I am forever grateful for his support of my work and for the lovely and lively gift of friendship which followed.”

Joe actively participated in causes he deemed essential to the vitality of the state and region. He chaired the advisory board of the Nasher Museum of Art for many years, was co-chair of the 50th Anniversary celebrations at NCMA in 1997, and hosted countless fundraisers for environmental, animal rights, and progressive political causes at his contemporary country home in Hillsborough. Joe’s dogs, mostly Bouvier des Flandres, were his constant companions and presence in his life.

As a friend Joe made each relationship special. He honored the achievements of others with memorable curated celebrations. His New Year’s Eve parties were legendary for their special style and unexpected infusions. When he traveled with friends he invariably brought along steamer trunks filled with elegant clothing and jewelry for every possible occasion—just in case.

Joe was the centerpiece of his vast tableau of friends. He shared the spirit of life.

The Rowand family is under the care of Walker's Funeral Home of Chapel Hill.