I was a student of Fine Arts at UA in the 70's. Alvin Sella was the only member of the faculty at that time that I had any real respect for. He was an extraordinary man. His quirks and his obsession were at times amusing, confusing and always a challenge. I will never forget him. He was a fine painter I admired.

I painted for hours today.  I thought of the professor the entire time and wondered if he would approve. I hope he would have.

I was a student in the late 70s. I remember I had gone to NYC during break to get painting materials and see the galleries, and while there I ran into him on the street. Needless to say I was supprised. We walked around a bit and went to his tailor.
...just one of many stories. I was lucky to be there.

You will be greatly missed.  My prayers are with your family.  UA has lost a legend.

I was one of Mr. Sella's students in the 70's and he was truly one of the most fascinating people I have ever known. Four years with him were priceless, and I am left with a lifetime of stories.

Studying under Professor Sella was a life experience I will always treasure.  He was one of a kind, and I am honored to have known him.

I was a student of Mr. Sella's in painting and it was the most wonderfully productive period in my life. My art advanced significantly under his tutelage. Thank you Mr. Sella for sharing your knowledge and your advice and your great teaching skills. Yes I am still painting!

I first met Professor Sella in 1980 as an art student at UA.  His sense of humor and brutally honest comments got my attention.  I remember him riding his bike to classes, it was so classic.  Later in life I knew him as a friend.  He knew I worked for a fence contractor, so whenever he needed a fence repair or project, he would call.  Maria would always have the house smelling great with something cooking in the kitchen.  They were such a sweet couple.
God Bless and rest in peace.  Alvin and Maria together again.

Professor Sella was such an amazing teacher and a character who loved life and embraced art in a truly organic way. I saw in him someone who found their passion in life and developed and lived in it every moment he could. I will never forget my first day in his painting class. I was terrified. What I ended up getting from the infamous Al Sella was a teacher who helped me embrace criticism as something that continues to make us better and better. I learned amazing life lessons - as well as some pretty mad painting skills. As both a friend and mentor he will be missed. Carry on, professor!!!!!

Before I met professor Sella my art was very constrained and realistic. Professor Sella taught me how to let go, how to release whats inside of me, how to "put your guts on the paper" as he would say. I remember he would tell me, "First you must learn the rules before you can break them, you know all the rules Joey, know I want to see you break them!" I'm so happy that I was able to know him and be guided by him. RIP Professor Sella.

I met Mr. Sella while working at UA in the mid '90's. I worked for logistical support at the time. We moved his studio from Wood's Hall to a location down town. During the move I asked him in a painting we were moving was "paint by number". If you knew him you know what sort of response I got. He was a very unique person.

I was a student in Al's figure drawing class during my school years at UA. I signed up for that class specifically because of him. He was always fun and I loved his stories. I know he will be very missed and I'm happy to have had the experience studying under him.

OBITUARY

Alvin Sella

August 30, 1919 – April 8, 2013

Heritage Chapel Funeral Home

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