Rual Askew was born in Marietta, Oklahoma, October 1, 1920. He spent most of his boyhood years in San Antonio, Texas until attending the University of Texas in Austin. His interest in the arts developed early with poems, philosophy, and piano recitals throughout school. After receiving a Masters degree in creative writing in 1942, Askew served in the Army Air Corps during World War II. Soon after the war, he joined the staff of the Dallas Morning News in 1947.
Askew became a critic in the Amusements Department and Eventually became assistant editor under John Rosenfield. He reviewed music, ballet theatre, and movies, but is best known as the Dallas Morning News art critic. Askew left the paper in 1964. From 1964 until his death on December 6, 1979, Rual Askew owned and operated the 2719 Gallery, located at 2719 Routh.
From the guide to the Rual Askew Collection MA83-22., 1920-1974, (Texas/Dallas History & Archives, Dallas Public Library)
