In association with the Indianapolis Downtown Artists and Dealers Association (IDADA) Indiana Landmarks presents "The Articles of Loss" by Indiana artist Robert Allan James. Using a collage of scraps from everyday life as canvas, James paints images that try to reflect the spiritual adversities we endure. “My work is a reflection of decay and loss. I was struck recently by images of children in London during the Blitz, trying to play but forced to wear gasmasks. In this era of Ebola, what more ... view more »
In association with the Indianapolis Downtown Artists and Dealers Association (IDADA) Indiana Landmarks presents "The Articles of Loss" by Indiana artist Robert Allan James. Using a collage of scraps from everyday life as canvas, James paints images that try to reflect the spiritual adversities we endure. “My work is a reflection of decay and loss. I was struck recently by images of children in London during the Blitz, trying to play but forced to wear gasmasks. In this era of Ebola, what more symbolic image is there of a child? Drawn with cartoon whimsy, is the child with a gasmask any less troubling, a reminder of that time when we realized that the world was deadly earnest and not a playground? A robot can look comical, but it is still a machine that has rigid tasks and a set routine, one that keeps working until it wears out or is obsolete. A house doesn’t become obsolete, but it can be abandoned by those who once held it as the symbol of a new life and future. I am fascinated by what gets left behind in the wake of loss.” Robert Allan James grew up in Logansport, IN and studied Fine Art at the University of Saint Francis from 1991-1995 and has lived and worked in Indianapolis since 1997. Under his artist name Robaljam, he has participated in Oranje, Indy Visual Fringe, Tonic Ball Tonic Gallery, and several RAW Artists showcases. He’s been invited to or participated in group shows as far away as Columbus, OH and Fort Wayne, IN. Complimentary snacks and beverage will be available.
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