ARTIST’S STATEMENT

“Currently in my work I am creating decorative objects with primitive historical references both real and imagined. The figurative skeletal Tupilaq and Zocateq pieces are historically representative of native mthological creatures. Natural bones with their graceful organic shapes combined into different forms and made decorative with precious metal leaf. I have used both water and oil gilding techniques on the assembled figuarative pieces.

I have an interest in the beauty in natural forms and objects. Such as wooden sticks, plants and bones. I see complexity in the simplest of organic objects and shapes.

My interest in primitive art and myth has led to this recent work. Much of the ancient native cultures creative energies in art have a mythological-spiritual relationship to animals and people and their inter-relationships. For me the act of creation involves the discovery, selection and rearrangement of existing organic materials and objects. The similarities in the joints and connections of all vertebrate skeletons led me to their recombination into new figurative ways. A wonderful illusion is created and the viewer is stimulated to question what he or she sees. I feel questions are important, they reflect an involvement and interet the viewer has in the art and the science.

All the bones are real, no plastic, or any type of casting method is used. I acquire the bones from a variety of sources. Field expeditions into Arizona, Colorado and the local beaches here in California provide many pieces. Osteological supply houses, donations from friends and even holiday dinner celebrations are other sources. There are no endangered species used and no local laws are violated.

The pieces are wired and reinforced with hide glue, wood glue and epoxy for structural integrity. Some ceremonial pieces have been parcel gilt with both the oil and water gilding techniques, burnished, rubbed and toned where appropriate. The use of genuine gold, 12kt white and 22kt yellow give a precious jewel like quality. All the cases are custom fabricated wood and glass for each individual piece for a museum exhibit look.”

PROFILE

Jim received his education from Monmouth University in Long Branch, NJ and Palomar Colege, San Marcos, CA. He taught specialized subjects for Adult Education classes at San Dieguito High School and is a member of the "Society of Gilders" and the San Diego Visual Artists Guild. His work has been exhibited widely since 1977 in several juried shows throughout the region and in the Gibbes Museum, Charleston, SC. His work was the subject of a recent feature article, June 9, 2002, in the San Diego Union Tribune by Marcia Manna called "Bringing Bones to Life."