July 2015

The God of the South

In many ancient cultures (and perhaps a few modern ones) the gods were both anthropomorphic and an embodiment of some element or aspect of nature. “The God of the South” is one of a four part series of monotypes which employ color to manifest the essence of the particular God. The colors of the East reflect the rising sun, those of the West the setting sun, of the North, the blue of ice, and of the South, a mixture of impressions. The images of the gods were inspired by and derived from those of Southeast Asia from Cambodia and Thailand to Indonesia. Matted and framed to 16″ x 20″. $395

Requiem for a Muse

The nine Muses of Greek mythology have long been a source of fascination and, perhaps appropriately, inspiration for me. “Requiem For a Muse” is an assemblage sculpture consisting of nine Raku fired ceramic pieces which draws on both the classic Greek Chorus and the Requiem Choir of western culture to pose the question: “Which Muse, if any, is being mourned?” I can give no guidance. The answer depends upon the viewer. $450.

And All The King’s Men

And All The King‘s Men is an example of what can happen when you go into the ceramic’s studio after having watched an episode of Game of Thrones. It is a 9″ x 8″ x 6 1/2″ Raku fired ceramic sculpture that utilizes three different glazes to help emphasize the faces’ helmets, and coats of mail of the King‘s Men. In many ways it is similar to, but it is not a part of, a series of individual medieval themed pieces that I’m working on. $400.

Opprobrium on display at JAM

Here is Opprobrium on display at the JAM Gallery. The opening night was fun, even if the bad weather kept some people away. There is a wide range of art and artists on display so be sure to come out and support their (and my) work. Thanks!

The Penitent Pilgrim

The Penitent Pilgtil (C) John Fansmith, 2015

“The Penitent Pilgrim” is an experimental piece which uses a combination of glazes and underglazes to emphasize the conflicting emotions at the heart of the piece. I see the face and body language of “The Penitent Pilgrim” as expressing sorrow and remorse while holding to hope. It is part of a medieval themed series of Raku fired ceramic sculptures. 12″ x 3 1/2″ x 6″. $175.

JAM Gallery Juried Show Opens TODAY!

Just a reminder that the JAM Gallery’s Juried Show opens TODAY! My Raku-fired sculpture “Opprobrium” was accepted into the show and will be on display. The official opening reception will be this Saturday, July 11th from 3 until 8. If you are in Malvern (or are looking for a way to escape the heat) stop by and see my work and the work of several other talented artists. JAM Gallery is at 321 East King Street, Malvern, PA. Hope to see you there!

Financial District — High Noon

Financial District – High Noon” is part of a series of found object/recycled material collages which use FSP’s (Financial security papers – the inside printing on bills, bank statements, etc. envelopes) to explore the issues and relationships of Main Street and Wall Street America.10″ x 14″. $175.