Art serves as life's shadow reality, its conscience. Art lurks in allwyways and byways ready always to let us know that the beliefs we consider firm and faithful may have misplaced their righteous natures somewhere along the way. It reminds us that someone must always be plodding along behind the crowd scanning for that lonely face of truth, which turns away from the false principles we so often embrace. The artist, therefore, must be a steadfast sojourner, prepared to show us again and again the proper human path ... or at least something close to it.
Check out our interview with Paul, and his extensive portfolio of vibrant abstracts HERE!
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Monday, August 1, 2011
Atlanta artist Helen Crawford joins Jack Art Gallery
I paint moments of inner fiction.
sometimes like this:
A line in the sidewalk stretches to the end of the grass.
A tightrope wire strings me along. If I move my hips this way, I teeter.
If I move my hips that way, I totter. The ground pulses with color.
Sometimes I carry you with my body, out of balance and humming about:
grass
concrete sea
vessel
cradle figure
hush
color field
house
body ground
I begin with stories. A place becomes a protagonist and a scene. With thick brushstrokes, thin washes over time and pencil lines, I play with adjacencies of color, form and line to create paintings of familiar places and situations.
Helen is an artist, registered architect, visiting professor at Georgia Institute of Technology, and mother. She received her fine art and architecture degrees at Parsons School of Design in New York City, and Princeton University. She has provided commentary regarding fine art, architecture and urbanism for NPR, Metropolis Magazine, and The New York Times. In 1994, she was named “30 Artists: 30 and Under” by The New York Times Magazine.
Check out Helen's work on Jack Art Gallery.
sometimes like this:
A line in the sidewalk stretches to the end of the grass.
A tightrope wire strings me along. If I move my hips this way, I teeter.
If I move my hips that way, I totter. The ground pulses with color.
Sometimes I carry you with my body, out of balance and humming about:
grass
concrete sea
vessel
cradle figure
hush
color field
house
body ground
I begin with stories. A place becomes a protagonist and a scene. With thick brushstrokes, thin washes over time and pencil lines, I play with adjacencies of color, form and line to create paintings of familiar places and situations.
Helen is an artist, registered architect, visiting professor at Georgia Institute of Technology, and mother. She received her fine art and architecture degrees at Parsons School of Design in New York City, and Princeton University. She has provided commentary regarding fine art, architecture and urbanism for NPR, Metropolis Magazine, and The New York Times. In 1994, she was named “30 Artists: 30 and Under” by The New York Times Magazine.
Check out Helen's work on Jack Art Gallery.
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Virginia Erdie joins Jack Art Gallery
With a strong background in psychology, science fiction, creative writing and drawing/painting, I have developed a portfolio of imaginative and somewhat satirical artwork over the past 29 years.
As I am more and more fascinated with the chaotic beauty and design of this physical universe, I am currently more interested in the underlying subtleties that our senses cannot detect.
These subtleties are lurking just beyond the unconscious mind and I am attempting to capture that beauty and chaos on canvas and wood.
My embellishment studio classes at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and my printmaking studies at The Maryland Institute, College of Art, inspire me to incorporate found objects and texture into my current work.
I now possess a powerful ambition to create larger installations. I have learned that it is nearly impossible to deny myself of these creative obsessions.
Check out her body of work at Jack Art Gallery.
As I am more and more fascinated with the chaotic beauty and design of this physical universe, I am currently more interested in the underlying subtleties that our senses cannot detect.
These subtleties are lurking just beyond the unconscious mind and I am attempting to capture that beauty and chaos on canvas and wood.
My embellishment studio classes at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and my printmaking studies at The Maryland Institute, College of Art, inspire me to incorporate found objects and texture into my current work.
I now possess a powerful ambition to create larger installations. I have learned that it is nearly impossible to deny myself of these creative obsessions.
Check out her body of work at Jack Art Gallery.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Leslie Barlow joins the Jack Art Gallery portfolio
Jack Art Gallery is proud to welcome Leslie Barlow to our portfolio.
Leslie's artwork is made up of large-scale figurative oil paintings. She is in the process of experimenting with creating smaller works that reflect the same attitude and passion of her larger pieces.
Her current body of work investigates the obsession with sexualization and attractiveness in American culture, and how this influences gender roles and stereotypes. There is ambiguity and tension in her paintings, and this in junction with her bold, colorful painting style begs the viewer to be drawn into the work. Leslie intend the viewer to see the relationships of the figures in her paintings and to compose a narrative that suggests isolation, wonder and confusion, and sexuality. From this, inevitably the audience’s own insecurities and knowledge about gender roles and society will surface when confronted with her work. She takes a lot of influences from pop-culture, art history, relationships, and other related sources. Overall, the conversations and narratives that can be drawn from her paintings are definitely her favorite part about being an artist.
Leslie lives in downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota. She has a studio space that she works in at The Fallout artist co-op and she is the PR and Strategic Communications intern at The Soap Factory contemporary art gallery, both of which are also located in Minneapolis.
Check out her work!
Leslie's artwork is made up of large-scale figurative oil paintings. She is in the process of experimenting with creating smaller works that reflect the same attitude and passion of her larger pieces.
Her current body of work investigates the obsession with sexualization and attractiveness in American culture, and how this influences gender roles and stereotypes. There is ambiguity and tension in her paintings, and this in junction with her bold, colorful painting style begs the viewer to be drawn into the work. Leslie intend the viewer to see the relationships of the figures in her paintings and to compose a narrative that suggests isolation, wonder and confusion, and sexuality. From this, inevitably the audience’s own insecurities and knowledge about gender roles and society will surface when confronted with her work. She takes a lot of influences from pop-culture, art history, relationships, and other related sources. Overall, the conversations and narratives that can be drawn from her paintings are definitely her favorite part about being an artist.
Leslie lives in downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota. She has a studio space that she works in at The Fallout artist co-op and she is the PR and Strategic Communications intern at The Soap Factory contemporary art gallery, both of which are also located in Minneapolis.
Check out her work!
Saturday, June 11, 2011
New Artists added to Jack Art Gallery
Jack Art Gallery is pleased to announce the arrival of three new artists to our online portfolio. We welcome you to visit our portfolio and enjoy the talents of each. Click their names below to learn more.
KATHLEEN BOSELL - Georgia painter
TERRY SCOPELLITI - Georgia Photographer
KARL KEENAN - Alabama Painter
KATHLEEN BOSELL - Georgia painter
TERRY SCOPELLITI - Georgia Photographer
KARL KEENAN - Alabama Painter
Friday, March 18, 2011
Valeria Jean Marcus joins Jack Art Gallery
For Valeria, painting has become a way to express inner feelings with shapes, lines and color. She finds interest in painting abstract as much as she does drawing the human form. What remains constant in all that she does is the attempt to master illusion without making her paintings realistic for the human eye, but to feel a emotion, whether it be joyous or somber.
Sharp brushstrokes are obvious at times, while subtle lines disappear through the use of color. The final conclusion in each painting is often the spectators opininon which inner mood is dominant througout the aesthetic piece of art. Therefore, Valeria's art is in a nutshell, abstract with represential elements.
Check out her work at www.jackartgallery.com/valeria-jean-marcus.
Sharp brushstrokes are obvious at times, while subtle lines disappear through the use of color. The final conclusion in each painting is often the spectators opininon which inner mood is dominant througout the aesthetic piece of art. Therefore, Valeria's art is in a nutshell, abstract with represential elements.
Check out her work at www.jackartgallery.com/valeria-jean-marcus.
Monday, March 7, 2011
John Mazaheri joins Jack Art Gallery
Iranian-American artist, John Mazaheri, recently joined the growing portfolio of artists at Jack Art Gallery.
In the past few years John has mostly painted oil on canvas and has done drawings with pen, ink, and watercolor. John has always loved and practised abstraction, but sometimes his work does not seem truly abstract simply because the inspiration comes from nature. John loves indeed the sky, the horizon, deserts, mountains, but his intention is not to represent them in a conscious way. John just want to express his feelings and sensations, which are definitely of spiritual source. One may call John's works abstract landscapes.
John did his high school in Paris and studied art at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts (Paris) from 1970 to 1976. He graduated with a degree in printmaking (equivalent MFA) and taught this art at the College of Decorative Arts and French at the French Institute in Tehran for several years; then he moved to the United States with his family in 1984, after having earned a Master’s degree in French literature from Aix-en-Provence, France. In 1989, John got his Ph.D. in French from Brown University. He has taught at Auburn University in Alabama since then. John regularly participate in juried shows in America.
See John's work at www.jackartgallery.com/john-mazaheri
In the past few years John has mostly painted oil on canvas and has done drawings with pen, ink, and watercolor. John has always loved and practised abstraction, but sometimes his work does not seem truly abstract simply because the inspiration comes from nature. John loves indeed the sky, the horizon, deserts, mountains, but his intention is not to represent them in a conscious way. John just want to express his feelings and sensations, which are definitely of spiritual source. One may call John's works abstract landscapes.
John did his high school in Paris and studied art at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts (Paris) from 1970 to 1976. He graduated with a degree in printmaking (equivalent MFA) and taught this art at the College of Decorative Arts and French at the French Institute in Tehran for several years; then he moved to the United States with his family in 1984, after having earned a Master’s degree in French literature from Aix-en-Provence, France. In 1989, John got his Ph.D. in French from Brown University. He has taught at Auburn University in Alabama since then. John regularly participate in juried shows in America.
See John's work at www.jackartgallery.com/john-mazaheri
Thursday, February 10, 2011
An Interview with Matthew Linden King
Art is all around us, and creativity is sewn alongside the thread of existence. I create because it is instinctive within me to do so. To create is to believe in truth, and my desire to do so is not something I must conjure but something I must refuse. My recent work has been an exploration of this reality as I have attempted to express it through a new-found, rudimentary media: electrical tape. Using tape to create a piece of art has great significance to me because it represents the commonality that everyday things have in relation to art.
My eye is drawn naturally to everyday objects. Objects represent an intrinsic connection to the life I live and compose its significance to a great extent. My approach is not materialistic but metaphorical. I have always noticed my surroundings and have been curious about their makeup and significance, and that curiosity lends itself well in my current work. I have found that everyday objects become significant in some manner to everyone, and our interaction with them builds a subconscious connection to the object, which in turn enhances or detracts from our view of life around us. For instance, take away my favorite coffee cup, and I find for some strange reason that coffee suddenly becomes more than a bland drink and is in fact an experience. Coffee is now a vital part of my daily routine and is enhanced by my favorite cup that contains it.
I also find much spiritual significance in everyday objects. They represent a sort of common grace as they add to the connection I have to the life I live. A chair is no longer a chair when viewed under a lens of faith. Every time I sit in a chair, I am subconsciously exercising faith in that chair’s ability to support me, and I never think about it because almost every chair I have ever sat in has supported me. We are all creatures of faith, even if our faith is in our lack of faith; it is inescapable; therefore, things in our lives—be they physical or metaphysical—are always shaping our beliefs and experiences, and most of them I am willing to bet are subconscious.
Everyday objects point to truth. They are the wide brim of a funnel that ultimately leads to a decision between ultimate truth or relative morality. Documenting the significance of everyday objects in my life is a reminder to me that truth exists and that truth can be found in something as simple as a paper clip.
.
Tuesday, February 8, 2011
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Interview with Shellton LaBron Tremble
What was your first experience with art?
I believe it was a painting my mother painted of some horses on canvas. I thought to myself, how wonderful to create something new. She showed me some pencil drawings my older brother drew...I then asked why can't I draw, she said how do you know until you try. I was 8 years old when I think my interest blossomed.
What is your favorite medium & why?
My favorite medium is acrylic, but not exclusively. I like the fast drying nature and texture qualities I can achieve. Acrylic is vivid and versatile.
What style are you most drawn to? Does it ever change & if so, why?
I love conceptual and surrealistic motifs. But, I like all forms of visual expression. I tend to change by different inspirations. I also feel that a true artist is much like Leonardo Da Vinci or Michelangelo...able to display a unique touch, but also display mastery of many mediums.
Have you always been an artist or is this a career change?
No, not exactly. I have always explored art and have a deep love for the creative process, but I began to take it seriously when I realized that I had an in depth passion for art. It would be a tremendous accomplish to make a living while living your utmost desire!
Have you ever taken classes/courses?
I took a few art courses in college...a few short of a minor, but still consider myself self-taught, since I believe creativity is something no can teach. We can only convey techniques and processes, ingenuity and innovation comes from within.
What do you want your art to accomplish or describe?
My theme is power, passion, and perpetuity. I want my art to inspire, provoke, and awaken the following energy of the cosmos in our hearts. I want my art to portray a since of wonder, edginess, and imagery.
Art programs are being cut all over the nation in schools - what's your opinion on this?
I believe it is a detriment to the innovative nature of our children. Art is a form of expression and helps promote the process of ingenuity of young minds. Art is everywhere and is inclusive in all aspects of life...design, architecture, fashion, and decor. To exclude art from academia is to short-circuit the wholeness of educational development.
Where is your favorite place to create?
Anywhere and anytime...you never know when a spark of inventiveness will strike!
Which comes first - the inspiration or the medium?
Of course 'inspiration'! More than often than not we don't always have the mediums or time to create exactly at that moment, therefore I write down ideas or do thumbnail sketches.
How has your work changed over time?
My work has gotten more fluid and experimental. My work is more detailed and textured. My concepts and techniques continue to sharpen, to which I believe happens when we absorb art and surround ourselves by other creative artisans.
If somebody was standing in front of one of your works, is there anything you'd want to tell them?
Can't you feel the energy...does the work take you to the inner universe of the psyche...does the work make you want to live!
Do you have a favorite piece you've done?
I can not choose...it would be like trying to determine which twin child is better! But, as far as motifs, I would say music items, since they blend two forms of artistic expression.
Can you draw a perfect circle freehand?
Interesting. Perfection is something we should always try to attain, but I believe I can in the 90 percentile.
I believe it was a painting my mother painted of some horses on canvas. I thought to myself, how wonderful to create something new. She showed me some pencil drawings my older brother drew...I then asked why can't I draw, she said how do you know until you try. I was 8 years old when I think my interest blossomed.
What is your favorite medium & why?
My favorite medium is acrylic, but not exclusively. I like the fast drying nature and texture qualities I can achieve. Acrylic is vivid and versatile.
What style are you most drawn to? Does it ever change & if so, why?
I love conceptual and surrealistic motifs. But, I like all forms of visual expression. I tend to change by different inspirations. I also feel that a true artist is much like Leonardo Da Vinci or Michelangelo...able to display a unique touch, but also display mastery of many mediums.
Have you always been an artist or is this a career change?
No, not exactly. I have always explored art and have a deep love for the creative process, but I began to take it seriously when I realized that I had an in depth passion for art. It would be a tremendous accomplish to make a living while living your utmost desire!
Have you ever taken classes/courses?
I took a few art courses in college...a few short of a minor, but still consider myself self-taught, since I believe creativity is something no can teach. We can only convey techniques and processes, ingenuity and innovation comes from within.
What do you want your art to accomplish or describe?
My theme is power, passion, and perpetuity. I want my art to inspire, provoke, and awaken the following energy of the cosmos in our hearts. I want my art to portray a since of wonder, edginess, and imagery.
Art programs are being cut all over the nation in schools - what's your opinion on this?
I believe it is a detriment to the innovative nature of our children. Art is a form of expression and helps promote the process of ingenuity of young minds. Art is everywhere and is inclusive in all aspects of life...design, architecture, fashion, and decor. To exclude art from academia is to short-circuit the wholeness of educational development.
Where is your favorite place to create?
Anywhere and anytime...you never know when a spark of inventiveness will strike!
Which comes first - the inspiration or the medium?
Of course 'inspiration'! More than often than not we don't always have the mediums or time to create exactly at that moment, therefore I write down ideas or do thumbnail sketches.
How has your work changed over time?
My work has gotten more fluid and experimental. My work is more detailed and textured. My concepts and techniques continue to sharpen, to which I believe happens when we absorb art and surround ourselves by other creative artisans.
If somebody was standing in front of one of your works, is there anything you'd want to tell them?
Can't you feel the energy...does the work take you to the inner universe of the psyche...does the work make you want to live!
Do you have a favorite piece you've done?
I can not choose...it would be like trying to determine which twin child is better! But, as far as motifs, I would say music items, since they blend two forms of artistic expression.
Can you draw a perfect circle freehand?
Interesting. Perfection is something we should always try to attain, but I believe I can in the 90 percentile.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Interview with photographer David Foster
What was your first experience with art?
In my early years in school, I discovered no natural ability to draw or paint, which seemed to eliminate 'artist' from my menu of paths to pursue. Though I have been involved in photography in varying degrees for the past 40 years, it has only been in the past few years that I have come to see myself as an artist.
What is your favorite medium & why?
I am a photographer, now using digital exclusively. While I enjoyed the experience of 'wet' photography and working in the darkroom, I enjoy both the practical and artistic opportunities that the digital process affords.
Have you always been an artist or is this a career change?
Most of my career was spent working in the non-profit and higher education sectors. Since 2006, I have been shifting more of my time and energy into my artistic endeavors, which are now my primary focus.
Have you ever taken classes/courses?
I have had no formal art or photography training. I have taken several workshops and seminars, and read a fair amount, absorbing insights and technical skills from other photographers along the way. I have learned mostly from experimentation and exploration.
Do you have a muse or a favorite subject to portray?
My personal and artistic passions are primarily fueled by direct experience of beautiful and magical things to be found in nature. Sometimes this they're found in my front yard, sometimes half way around the world, but I am looking for something to amaze me. Sometimes it's a small as a dewdrop in the early morning light, sometimes as grand as a mountain range or a towering waterfall. Wherever I am, I try to keep myself open to being drawn to a new discovery. Whenever it happens, I experience it as a gift.
What do you want your art to accomplish or describe?
I hope that in connecting with the images, people will experience feelings of wonder, curiosity, joy, and leavening - along with an impulse go out and explore more for themselves.
Art programs are being cut all over the nation in schools - what's your opinion on this?
Not all school art programs are created equal. I fear that some today are not much better than the ones I experienced, which may do as much harm as good in encouraging artistic creativity in children. However, I have seen many wonderful art programs in schools as well; ones that both inspire creativity and nurture skills. When these programs are cut, the learning and well being of our children are hurt and our communities are diminished.
Where is your favorite place to create?
I find myself most often drawn to places in nature with water of one sort or another: fields covered in dew, mountains with streams and waterfalls, ocean shorelines….. I consistently experience something magical in these places that finds expression in my images.
If somebody was standing in front of one of your works, is there anything you'd want to tell them?
Two things: first, pause for a moment and allow yourself to be drawn into the image, both as a whole and in all its detail; second, though some images may seem to be manipulated, I use only the minimum amount of Photoshop needed to have the print reflect the image I experienced in the viewfinder with no artificial ingredients added.
Do you have a favorite piece you've done?
At the risk of a cliché, it's like asking which is my favorite child.
Can you draw a perfect circle freehand?
Not even close.
In my early years in school, I discovered no natural ability to draw or paint, which seemed to eliminate 'artist' from my menu of paths to pursue. Though I have been involved in photography in varying degrees for the past 40 years, it has only been in the past few years that I have come to see myself as an artist.
What is your favorite medium & why?
I am a photographer, now using digital exclusively. While I enjoyed the experience of 'wet' photography and working in the darkroom, I enjoy both the practical and artistic opportunities that the digital process affords.
Have you always been an artist or is this a career change?
Most of my career was spent working in the non-profit and higher education sectors. Since 2006, I have been shifting more of my time and energy into my artistic endeavors, which are now my primary focus.
Have you ever taken classes/courses?
I have had no formal art or photography training. I have taken several workshops and seminars, and read a fair amount, absorbing insights and technical skills from other photographers along the way. I have learned mostly from experimentation and exploration.
Do you have a muse or a favorite subject to portray?
My personal and artistic passions are primarily fueled by direct experience of beautiful and magical things to be found in nature. Sometimes this they're found in my front yard, sometimes half way around the world, but I am looking for something to amaze me. Sometimes it's a small as a dewdrop in the early morning light, sometimes as grand as a mountain range or a towering waterfall. Wherever I am, I try to keep myself open to being drawn to a new discovery. Whenever it happens, I experience it as a gift.
What do you want your art to accomplish or describe?
I hope that in connecting with the images, people will experience feelings of wonder, curiosity, joy, and leavening - along with an impulse go out and explore more for themselves.
Art programs are being cut all over the nation in schools - what's your opinion on this?
Not all school art programs are created equal. I fear that some today are not much better than the ones I experienced, which may do as much harm as good in encouraging artistic creativity in children. However, I have seen many wonderful art programs in schools as well; ones that both inspire creativity and nurture skills. When these programs are cut, the learning and well being of our children are hurt and our communities are diminished.
Where is your favorite place to create?
I find myself most often drawn to places in nature with water of one sort or another: fields covered in dew, mountains with streams and waterfalls, ocean shorelines….. I consistently experience something magical in these places that finds expression in my images.
If somebody was standing in front of one of your works, is there anything you'd want to tell them?
Two things: first, pause for a moment and allow yourself to be drawn into the image, both as a whole and in all its detail; second, though some images may seem to be manipulated, I use only the minimum amount of Photoshop needed to have the print reflect the image I experienced in the viewfinder with no artificial ingredients added.
Do you have a favorite piece you've done?
At the risk of a cliché, it's like asking which is my favorite child.
Can you draw a perfect circle freehand?
Not even close.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Interview with artist Romy Aura Maloon
What is your favorite medium & why?
I love to work with ceramics. I love how the material is so temperamental; how the colors, texture, even shape changes in the kiln. I am usually controlling and planned with my work; the kiln offers me a level of freedom that I would not have other wise. It leaves room for chance; which is where the most interesting work usually comes from. It’s my medium of choice. I have not had access to kiln for a while so I have been experimenting with different things. Expanding foam, plastics, craft materials like glitter and rhinestones. I like to collect things and slowly pull them together into sculptures. I am working currently as a catering coordinator, so the garish aesthetic of centerpieces and the like has been influencing me. I have been using a lot more craft materials.
Have you always been an artist or is this a career change?
I have always wanted to be a fine artist, but the pragmatist in me caused me to be an event/catering coordinator. It is still creative. I get to design how parties look, make invitations, and occasionally centerpieces, so I still get to mindlessly craft. It is hard to find the time to devote to my art work since I work a 9-5 job. I sleep very little. I usually work all day and make artwork in the evenings. It can be pretty exhausting so it really helps if I have a show deadline to light a fire under me.
I would give anything to make my own work all day, but at this time it is not really possible for me. I hate manipulating my work into what I believe will sell. I have been illustrating a children’s book recently (to be published this July!) and while I love the process, I find it really restrictive to have to limit what I can make to the content of a linear story. I like to make sculptures that shift and change based on material and how I’m feeling at that given moment. For me it is far more fulfilling to have a job that is separate from my art, so money does not dictate my content.
Have you ever taken classes/courses?
I went to the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida. I received a BFA with Honors in sculpture and business. I loved living in a small town like Sarasota. I loved living on the beach, but the artistic scene and job market was really lacking. I needed to be in a city where the possibility of a creative profession existed.
Do you have a muse or a favorite subject to portray?
I glean a lot of my artistic influence from my family. My parents are South African immigrants and I am their first American born child. I think most people experience a generational divide with their parents, especially if they are immigrants. I saw a lot of African art growing up because my parents collect it, so I’ve always had a fascination with the way artifacts can be used to mimic nature. I like to take stock "African" and American kitsch images manipulate them. My work often straddles the line of kitsch, but from what I’ve been told, it’s a “bit too weird” to be fully mistaken as such.
What do you want your art to accomplish or describe?
I do not like work that has a very specific “message” to tell you. It becomes a one liner. Why look at art if it’s not going to continue to insight new feeling every time you look at it? Otherwise why would you want to own it? That’s the reason I stopped making art that was too political. I think it can become stale and preachy; at least it was for me. I like ambiguity. That’s where the interesting content lies. I like how one person will look at my work and assume I’m an environmentalist and another will think I’m an avid hunter. They bring their own narrative to it; I want that. Some one once told me that may work is really disturbing but looks like candy. To make someone want to eat something that resembles a blood splatter is an accomplishment in my book.
Where is your favorite place to create?
I have a studio in my home. I need a separate space. I’m not one of those people that can just make anywhere. I need my tools, materials, and space. I can’t make where I sleep. I like to have clean white walls/ tables and slowly fill them with trinkets and materials.
How has your work changed over time?
My work has defiantly matured. I think it has become less contrived. I used to assign meaning to objects, now I let the viewer decide.
If somebody was standing in front of one of your works, is there anything you'd want to tell them?
I have mentioned how I don’t like to dictate my content to the viewer, but maybe I would mention my materials as I think what I use is pretty important. Using organic material as opposed to synthetic tells a very different story. I might also mention my background a bit. When I mention my family history people seem to “understand” more why I would use the imagery I do. They often think it’s strange that a girl would be attracted to the imagery I am. I want my viewer to be attracted to my materials the same way I am. When you are attracted to a particular work, there is usually an unspeakable reason. I want my viewer to have that initial interest and after that initial draw, discuss my personal history. I think people like to feel connected to a work, but they also like to feel connected to the artist. What their story was that caused them to create the work.
I love to work with ceramics. I love how the material is so temperamental; how the colors, texture, even shape changes in the kiln. I am usually controlling and planned with my work; the kiln offers me a level of freedom that I would not have other wise. It leaves room for chance; which is where the most interesting work usually comes from. It’s my medium of choice. I have not had access to kiln for a while so I have been experimenting with different things. Expanding foam, plastics, craft materials like glitter and rhinestones. I like to collect things and slowly pull them together into sculptures. I am working currently as a catering coordinator, so the garish aesthetic of centerpieces and the like has been influencing me. I have been using a lot more craft materials.
Have you always been an artist or is this a career change?
I have always wanted to be a fine artist, but the pragmatist in me caused me to be an event/catering coordinator. It is still creative. I get to design how parties look, make invitations, and occasionally centerpieces, so I still get to mindlessly craft. It is hard to find the time to devote to my art work since I work a 9-5 job. I sleep very little. I usually work all day and make artwork in the evenings. It can be pretty exhausting so it really helps if I have a show deadline to light a fire under me.
I would give anything to make my own work all day, but at this time it is not really possible for me. I hate manipulating my work into what I believe will sell. I have been illustrating a children’s book recently (to be published this July!) and while I love the process, I find it really restrictive to have to limit what I can make to the content of a linear story. I like to make sculptures that shift and change based on material and how I’m feeling at that given moment. For me it is far more fulfilling to have a job that is separate from my art, so money does not dictate my content.
Have you ever taken classes/courses?
I went to the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida. I received a BFA with Honors in sculpture and business. I loved living in a small town like Sarasota. I loved living on the beach, but the artistic scene and job market was really lacking. I needed to be in a city where the possibility of a creative profession existed.
Do you have a muse or a favorite subject to portray?
I glean a lot of my artistic influence from my family. My parents are South African immigrants and I am their first American born child. I think most people experience a generational divide with their parents, especially if they are immigrants. I saw a lot of African art growing up because my parents collect it, so I’ve always had a fascination with the way artifacts can be used to mimic nature. I like to take stock "African" and American kitsch images manipulate them. My work often straddles the line of kitsch, but from what I’ve been told, it’s a “bit too weird” to be fully mistaken as such.
What do you want your art to accomplish or describe?
I do not like work that has a very specific “message” to tell you. It becomes a one liner. Why look at art if it’s not going to continue to insight new feeling every time you look at it? Otherwise why would you want to own it? That’s the reason I stopped making art that was too political. I think it can become stale and preachy; at least it was for me. I like ambiguity. That’s where the interesting content lies. I like how one person will look at my work and assume I’m an environmentalist and another will think I’m an avid hunter. They bring their own narrative to it; I want that. Some one once told me that may work is really disturbing but looks like candy. To make someone want to eat something that resembles a blood splatter is an accomplishment in my book.
Where is your favorite place to create?
I have a studio in my home. I need a separate space. I’m not one of those people that can just make anywhere. I need my tools, materials, and space. I can’t make where I sleep. I like to have clean white walls/ tables and slowly fill them with trinkets and materials.
How has your work changed over time?
My work has defiantly matured. I think it has become less contrived. I used to assign meaning to objects, now I let the viewer decide.
If somebody was standing in front of one of your works, is there anything you'd want to tell them?
I have mentioned how I don’t like to dictate my content to the viewer, but maybe I would mention my materials as I think what I use is pretty important. Using organic material as opposed to synthetic tells a very different story. I might also mention my background a bit. When I mention my family history people seem to “understand” more why I would use the imagery I do. They often think it’s strange that a girl would be attracted to the imagery I am. I want my viewer to be attracted to my materials the same way I am. When you are attracted to a particular work, there is usually an unspeakable reason. I want my viewer to have that initial interest and after that initial draw, discuss my personal history. I think people like to feel connected to a work, but they also like to feel connected to the artist. What their story was that caused them to create the work.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Interview with artist Aarica Blackett
In our continued series of artist interviews, we speak with a new artist to the Jack Art Gallery portfolio ... Aarica Blackett of Atlanta, Georgia.
What was your first experience with art?
I have been doing art and expressing myself creatively ever since I was a little girl. The earliest memory that I have of expressing myself creatively is by experimenting with the Lite Brite toy. I used to love making images and choosing the colors that I wanted to put in the pictures. Once I was bored with the designs that came with the Lite Brite, I designed my own images to create. I would draw my design on a black sheet of construction paper, then force holes in the paper with the miniature light bulbs.
Have you always been an artist or is this a career change?
I have always been an artist, but I have never thought of it as a possible career. With everything I do, regardless of the task, I always try to challenge myself and think of a creative, outside-of-the-box alternative.
Have you ever taken classes/courses?
Not yet, but I am going to SCAD-Atlanta this fall to pursue my masters degree in Art Administration. While I am there, I am definitely looking forward to taking some art classes to increase my knowledge, learn new things, and hone my craft.
Do you have a muse or a favorite subject to portray?
I love to paint women. It is natural for me. Every picture I paint is a snapshot of my life, something that I was experiencing at the time. I paint to capture that feeling, but I paint without faces because I know there are other women who have gone through that same experience, or who are currently going through a similar situation. I paint to feel, I paint to capture, and I paint to remember.
What do you want your art to accomplish or describe?
I want my art to inspire. I want my art to strike a nerve with the viewer and trigger an emotion. My accomplishment is just being able to convey my emotions onto canvas and depict it the way that I envision it.
Art programs are being cut all over the nation in schools - what's your opinion on this?
I feel this is a grave mistake on our community and on our nation. Those who have graduated already have grown up with the arts around them, and now we are taking this opportunity away from our kids, our future. Many children are inspired by the arts while in school because it is their only opportunity to express themselves outside of the confinements of the box. Art, sports, and music are where kids are allowed to try new things, discover something inside of them, and blossom. Many kids are not able to exercise their creative self unless they have these art programs in the school. And many parents are not able to afford lessons for their children. Honestly, this country has their priorities in the wrong areas. We need to get back to investing in our youth, which is the future of this country. When we don't involve them in the decision making, allow them to try new things, then we are not giving them the freedom to pursue their true happiness.
Which comes first - the inspiration or the medium?
The inspiration. Once you have the inspiration, that will drive you to the right medium.
How has your work changed over time?
At the beginning I was doing many things on the surface. You could look at the painting and the story is pretty much written for you. My later paintings have more depth, regarding the story behind the painting. I enjoy finding new and creative ways to tell the emotion behind the painting. And I love the element of surprise.
If somebody was standing in front of one of your works, is there anything you'd want to tell them?
Tell them? No, I would want to ask them "How does this painting make you feel, and why?" Too many people try to tell people things, not enough people ask questions.
Do you have a favorite piece you've done?
My favorite piece varies, but right now it is Formalities. This is the piece with the young lady sitting under a chandelier. It is just a beautiful piece that speaks to me in so many ways. There is another piece that I am working on and once I complete this, this might be my new favorite.
Can you draw a perfect circle freehand?
No, but why would I want to? That's no fun!
What was your first experience with art?
I have been doing art and expressing myself creatively ever since I was a little girl. The earliest memory that I have of expressing myself creatively is by experimenting with the Lite Brite toy. I used to love making images and choosing the colors that I wanted to put in the pictures. Once I was bored with the designs that came with the Lite Brite, I designed my own images to create. I would draw my design on a black sheet of construction paper, then force holes in the paper with the miniature light bulbs.
Have you always been an artist or is this a career change?
I have always been an artist, but I have never thought of it as a possible career. With everything I do, regardless of the task, I always try to challenge myself and think of a creative, outside-of-the-box alternative.
Have you ever taken classes/courses?
Not yet, but I am going to SCAD-Atlanta this fall to pursue my masters degree in Art Administration. While I am there, I am definitely looking forward to taking some art classes to increase my knowledge, learn new things, and hone my craft.
Do you have a muse or a favorite subject to portray?
I love to paint women. It is natural for me. Every picture I paint is a snapshot of my life, something that I was experiencing at the time. I paint to capture that feeling, but I paint without faces because I know there are other women who have gone through that same experience, or who are currently going through a similar situation. I paint to feel, I paint to capture, and I paint to remember.
What do you want your art to accomplish or describe?
I want my art to inspire. I want my art to strike a nerve with the viewer and trigger an emotion. My accomplishment is just being able to convey my emotions onto canvas and depict it the way that I envision it.
Art programs are being cut all over the nation in schools - what's your opinion on this?
I feel this is a grave mistake on our community and on our nation. Those who have graduated already have grown up with the arts around them, and now we are taking this opportunity away from our kids, our future. Many children are inspired by the arts while in school because it is their only opportunity to express themselves outside of the confinements of the box. Art, sports, and music are where kids are allowed to try new things, discover something inside of them, and blossom. Many kids are not able to exercise their creative self unless they have these art programs in the school. And many parents are not able to afford lessons for their children. Honestly, this country has their priorities in the wrong areas. We need to get back to investing in our youth, which is the future of this country. When we don't involve them in the decision making, allow them to try new things, then we are not giving them the freedom to pursue their true happiness.
Which comes first - the inspiration or the medium?
The inspiration. Once you have the inspiration, that will drive you to the right medium.
How has your work changed over time?
At the beginning I was doing many things on the surface. You could look at the painting and the story is pretty much written for you. My later paintings have more depth, regarding the story behind the painting. I enjoy finding new and creative ways to tell the emotion behind the painting. And I love the element of surprise.
If somebody was standing in front of one of your works, is there anything you'd want to tell them?
Tell them? No, I would want to ask them "How does this painting make you feel, and why?" Too many people try to tell people things, not enough people ask questions.
Do you have a favorite piece you've done?
My favorite piece varies, but right now it is Formalities. This is the piece with the young lady sitting under a chandelier. It is just a beautiful piece that speaks to me in so many ways. There is another piece that I am working on and once I complete this, this might be my new favorite.
Can you draw a perfect circle freehand?
No, but why would I want to? That's no fun!
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Friday, April 30, 2010
Jack Gives Back!
We received a great review from the Atlanta Art Critic this week. Click the link to read it.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Sunday, April 4, 2010
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