The first exhibit of the spring 2020 semester begins with Art Roseumbaum’s paintings and drawings, with an artist reception to be held at the end of the exhibition.
The 81-year-old artist has been renowned for decades with talents including painter, muralist, illustrator, educator, author, collector, musician and ethnographer.
Rosenbaum retired from the University of Georgia, where he taught a variety of art classes. ETSU’s Chair of Department of Art & Design Mira Gerard studied with Rosenbaum as a graduate student at UGA. Gerard asked several years ago if it would be possible to feature Rosenbaum’s art, and now this day has come for students to experience how Rosenbaum’s work blends topics of interest home to Appalachia.
“ETSU already has quite a bit of focus and a program in Appalachian Studies, so it makes sense that we would work with an artist that is not necessarily from Appalachia, but his artwork relates to musicians known in Appalachia and the influences of the music in our area,” Mary B. Martin School of the Arts Director Anita DeAngelis said.
His interests in American folk music and tradition are evident in his works. His images are reminiscent of Appalachian culture, which fits perfectly here in Johnson City. Banjos and fiddles are pictured in many of his works and include many different ethnic people as a tribute to those who have created, defined and influenced folk music throughout America’s history.
“I think his artwork is different because he’s a musician, so he’s performed this music and has written this music,” DeAngelis said. “So certainly his art has a place here and in our community.”
His use of detailed design and color portray a story of people and their lives. The images in the foreground contrast beautifully with what’s happening in the background, a design tactic that pulls the viewers’ eyes from space to space all over the canvas.
“Sometimes when you’re in an academic career, what ends up happening is that we get really focused on one area; we silo things,” DeAngelis said. “But in reality, in the creative world, many artists are working outside their primary discipline and work across disciplines. And I think art and the work that he does is a great example that has many creative interests and finds a way to merge those things. I find him a creative individual. We can put a label on him, but he’s going to defy those labels.”
DeAngelis said she can’t be sure if Rosenbaum will perform at the reception or during his stay in Johnson City, although she said Rosenbaum is familiar with ETSU’s bluegrass program and has expressed interest in a jam session.
Rosenbaum’s work is now on display at the Reece Museum on campus. The show will be held through Feb. 21, and an artist’s reception and talk will be hosted on Feb. 20 at 5 p.m., open and free to the public.
