Sunday, February 21, 2010

THE ESSENTIAL JIM SHROSBREE

OR (flat), 2007, wire, tin can, nylon, glue, enamel, and thread,
13" x 10" x 4 ½"

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Jim Shrosbree has been on an artistic trajectory of his own kind. The path he’s been on rises above considerations of medium or style—in fact, it transcends both. Whether working in clay, paint, wood, or scrap materials, Jim manages to create works of art that guide the viewer onto that unique path he’s been treading.

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nn-series-MC-#-59.1, gouache, oil, pencil, and ballpoint pen on paper

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A few years ago, I ambled into the gallery within the university library in Fairfield, Iowa and right away I was confronted with a large lemon-yellow ceramic pot, my first encounter with the work of Jim Shrosbree. The size and color of that piece got my attention while its form and naturalness of execution seemed vastly different; it looked as if it grew into place. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to see the whole range of Jim’s work and it seems that no matter what material he uses, the result is an experience of phenomena.

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EPD, 2003, wire, glue, nylon, paint on wall, 6" x 8 ½" x 4"



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O/O (Bflat), 2006, ceramic, nylon, enamel, enamel on wall
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Recently, I visited Jim in his studio and had the opportunity to find out much more about his own education. After completing his BFA in painting and drawing at Boise State, Jim went on to receive an MFA in ceramics at the University of Montana. Of course, key to his experience at UM was the exposure to some of the legends of contemporary ceramics. Rudy Autio was at the helm of the ceramics program there and one of the many visiting artists was Peter Voulkos. Later in life, Jim actually got to see two of Voulkos’s infamous throwing demonstrations—priceless. I want to thank Jim for extending a priceless opportunity to myself—a studio visit with him. Jim Shrosbree is one artist from the Midwest whose work should not be missed and whose effect on oneself will not be forgotten.
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View of shelf in Jim's studio with jars of ceramic glaze, among other things.

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The David Lynch Foundation has been creating quality videos on artists and last year, they released one about Jim Shrosbree, produced by Geoff Boothby. Click HERE to see one of the best art documentaries of the past year.

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More of Jim Shrosbree’s art can be found at his website, jimshrosbree.com.

Jim's ceramics can be seen at Peace Project Ceramics.com.