Michael Walls

Michael Walls Tribute John Michael Walls died peacefully in Danbury, CT on December 23, 2024 at the age of 87. The son of the late John Alvin Walls and Elva (Ricciardi) Walls, Michael was born on November 12, 1937 in Washington, D.C.
He was a graduate of Georgetown University, where he was also the Glee Club piano accompanist, followed by three years of study at Harvard Universitys Graduate School of Design, and three semesters at the University of California, Berkeleys School of Environmental Design. Michael enjoyed a long and highly distinguished career in the art world as a gallery owner, director, curator, historian and teacher. In 1967, he opened his first gallery, The Michael Walls Gallery, in San Francisco, CA. In 1974, he opened the Michael Walls Gallery in lower Manhattan and became an important part of the New York and national art scene for the next 50 years. Along the way, he supported the careers of numerous artists who appreciated his keen eye, wealth of knowledge, engaging manner and passion for their success. His last major exhibition was The State of New York Painting featuring the works of 26 prominent artists from across New York.
Michael was a master storyteller and extraordinary writer. His stories, letters and published essays touched countless people with their eloquence, sophistication, wit, detail and superb command of language. He was also a very accomplished horticulturist who designed, built and maintained a diversity of public and private gardens in Manhattan.
Above all, Michael cherished time with his family and the friends made on his journey. He will be missed but always remembered for his kindness, empathy, creative energy and remarkable ability to find beauty and wonder in all things, great and small. Michael is survived by his nieces Elisabeth Fox and Mary Haas, and his nephew David Manion. He was predeceased by his sister Francesca Manion, his brother-in-law Francis Manion and his nephew Chris Manion. Services will be held at a later date, and interment will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial contribution may be made to Archbishop Carroll High School, Attn: Advancement Office, 4300 Harewood Road, NE, Washington, DC 20017, or online by clicking 'Support Us' at https://www.archbishopcarroll.org. Carpino Funeral Home of Southbury is honored to have been entrusted with Michael's arrangements.