Jules Buck Jones’ first solo exhibition at Champion, Animal Again, is comprised of new works on paper, video, and a massive installation, all of which extend his investigation into the concepts of wildlife, natural science, mythology, and abstraction. Animal Again builds on Jones’ earlier work by bringing together both drawing and sculpture - choppier, heavier marks abstract the mask-like animal forms.
Employing a larger-than-life presence intrinsic to the changing dialogue between man and the animal kingdom, his characters continue to center around the hawk, fox, owl, and toad. Depicting these animals without their eyes invites the idea of transformation as each drawing becomes a potential shell for one to enter, wear, or maneuver. The illusion of hollowness is created in response to a fascination with the desire, and sometimes unintentional urge, to actually become the animal. This opens up a new direction which allows for the addition of new media to complement Jones' rhythmic drawing style.
Emerging from a densely-wooded landscape installation, Jones’ works meld his intuitive process with drawings of species indigenous to Texas and the Northeast. Jones closely observes wildlife native to these areas and immerses himself in naturalism while studying notions of shamanism. Jones' concentration draws on stories and the role of animal imagery in prehistory and creation myths - especially as they relate to harnessing real animal power within ceremony.
Jules Buck Jones was born in Northampton MA and grew up in Northern and Central Virginia. He received his BFA fromVirginia Commonwealth University in 2005 and MFA from University of Texas at Austin in 2008. Jones was Artist in Residence in Everglades National Park in the summer of 2009 and completed a residency at the Vermont Studio Center in Johnson, VT this past winter. Showing throughout Texas with solo shows in Dallas, Austin, and Houston, Jones’ works are in the collections of Austin Museum of Art and Everglades National Park. He is also part of several collaborative teams that practice large scale installations and collage. Jones lives and works in Austin.
Animal Again will be on view from February 25 through March 26, 2011. Gallery Hours: Tuesday through Saturday, 11-6 PM.
Upcoming exhibitions at the gallery include The Sultans Played Creole, curated by James Cope, opening April 2, remaining on view until Saturday, April 30.
2 comments:
GoOOOO Jules!
UPDATE YOUR BLOG DENNIS OR I WILL BE SO BORED
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