Jim Shrosbree
Bold forms and unusual colors seem to declare “look at me!” suggesting the uniqueness of a painting or sculpture. “Buy me!” is the not-so-hidden subtext. But Jim Shrosbree’s eight sculptures at I Space (there are also seven drawings) implicitly critique such art. Small and initially modest, these lyrically hermetic works reward repeated viewing.
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(EPD), mounted parallel to the wall, offers a wavy surface with small hills and valleys. The title is a “reminder” of the word “epidermis,” Shrosbree says, and the piece does recall human skin. Even less imposing than ODB, (EPD) is more complex when viewed from the side. A bulbous bright blue shape accompanied by several blue wires fastens the “skin” to the wall, while the piece’s shadow has been doubled by a “shadow” Shrosbree painted on the wall. The differences between the relatively straight wires, the bulbous blue form, and the gently curving surface hint at deeper mysteries. Part of Shrosbree’s intent is to deny obvious meaning–and even the stability of objects. As he writes in his statement: “I hope that references and associations which may be found in my work will not hold the mind to a particular emotion or thought, but rather allow the memory to resonate.”
Art accompanying story in printed newspaper (not available in this archive): photo/Fred Camper.
