I've been invited to show at the Drawing Rooms in Jersey City, NJ for their upcoming exhibition The Big Show: All Animals Welcome. I will be displaying Orca at Sunset No. 4, Amphitrite's Despair, andWaterlogged Herd.
This exhibition holds the theme of that the earliest art images known to man were cave paintings which depicted animals to help tell the story of their lives, giving animals a mythic and symbolic presence. Artists have continued to be interested in animals as subject matter. Peaceable Kingdom by Edward Hicks takes its theme from a passage in the bible which tells of the animals gathering together in harmony, Guernica by Picasso tells a story of war, Deborah Butterfield’s horses are a metaphorical substitute for herself, Louise Bourgeois’ spiders allude to the strength of her mother, and were used as a symbol of nurturing and protection. Animals are of great importance as companions to humans, bringing joy and comfort into our lives. We cherish animals as part of our families, and also consider them our friends and protectors. Animals, insects and even micro-organisms have important roles in the ecosystem, co-existing and balancing each other out. Some animals and insects help to reduce negative impacts on the globe, addressing issues such as global warming and pollution. Animals deserve our respect. Issues around extinction and the care and treatment of animals are of the utmost importance. How are artists incorporating animals into their artwork today? What meaning is placed upon animals and how are animals used as image, symbol and metaphor in artists works today?
The exhibit will run from December 14, 2019 to February 8, 2020 with an opening reception held on December 14, 2019 6pm-9pm.
Gallery is located at 926 Newark Ave, Jersey City, NJ. For more information please visit their website HERE
