Assemblage

"Assemblage" is the 3-D version of "collage”. "Found object fragments," "discards," or "throwaways" (artist's work to look at: Schwitters, Cornell, Rauschenberg, Bearden, etc.).


These things are organized by their specific elements. The resulting groups are then arranged into compositions of art.


Extending to many cultures of people living in family, religious, work, and various other groups; We could be viewed as a complex living version of "assemblage”(Webster 1. a group of persons or things gathered or collected).


We have “found” each other by chance; either by blood, common goals, or a certain chemistry. These connections help to formulate new ideas, innovations, and even new generations. John Anderson

Sunday, March 31, 2019

The Chicago Botanical Garden

                  I needed a break today;
              A wellness day was the way.

The Chicago Botanical Garden was mine to take;
         
A brisk walk and some photos to make.

There seems nothing quite like the gaze into nature;
            especially when it returns the favor. 

                                    jha










































Saturday, March 30, 2019

My American Flag Art












The Art Institute of Chicago (AIC)

 I hope some of you can benefit from various methods I use to inform my art.
My focus today was:
1. A three channel digital video installation” about the erosion of the merger between two groups of countries, one group wanting independence from colonization; and another group of countries connected by the same religion. (Informs my need to represent a socio-political reference in my paintings.)
2. Mezzotints of Hamanishi Katsunori. (His images inform my jewelry)
3. And from catalogues in the Ryerson&Burnham Library, abstract prints and paintings by Helen Frankenthaler. (Informs my Painting; Abstract Expressionism is the greatest mystery to me, and therefore the most challenging.)














Friday, March 22, 2019

The Art Institute of Chicago

My goal this year is to visit the Art Institute of Chicago (AIC) more often. Every Visit reveals something new. My solo experience allows me to have a relaxed focus on the details in one piece and read the descriptions. I like to spend the whole day for a total emersion. It is important to determine a specific focus for each visit. 

My theme for today was the texture and application of the painted surface. And the resulting tonal gradations of color. I have discovered the abstract expressionism within realist paintings. Without a focus of what you want to accomplish, it is very easy to become overwhelmed with the totality of a visual bombardment to the senses.

The AIC is a world class museum exposing millions of people from all interests and backgrounds. My membership each year makes my experience so much more enjoyable, expansive, and affordable. This place feels like a home away from home. Learning about the world through art is easy and fun.