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"The
World isYours"
Bill Ross
& Becky Iker
April 27 - May 19, 2007
Bill Ross interviewed by
Ann Gibson of FMH Consulting
Ann: How would I
describe this exhibit?
Bill: I actually
see two shows in one, the paintings I do solo and the collaborations I
have been doing with Becky Iker. In my solo works you see into a world
where people are not around anymore. The world has gone back to a sort
of Eden with animals wondering around eating cupcakes and coveting the
stuff left behind. The world is theirs now, not ours. The colrs are
bright and Disney-like, but the sentiment is something else intirely. I
try to find the poetry in the absurd. basically these paintings are
cartoon depictions of a world being reclaimed by creatures we scoot out
of the way and in the process are creating a new way to see and be. The
collaborations with Becky Iker link up to this theme in many ways as
does her life. Becky doesn't speak much, she has Down syndrome and is
small in stature. She is often not listened to and yet demands respect
and has a queenly presence about her. When you meet her you will see.
So there is another aspect to this title, "The World is Yours". The
world is "Hers" . She owns a certain slice of it and her drawings,
usually of odd multi-eyed moon faces resonate in the same way my
paintings do. There is an innocennce and a dark sense of humor to it.
Ann: How do the
collaborations with Becky Iker happen?
Bill: Well, Becky
draws on plywood pannels I build and then I paint them in. She really
has a strong sense of how to compose a picture. Then I provide the
color. It is pretty simple, but a great partnership.
Ann: Tell me a
little more about this partnership. Why is it important?
Bill: Our work
together has helped me creatively. Becky Iker takes the preciousness
out of the process, which is the ultimate gift you can give to any
artist. She jots down her drawings and moves on to the next . She
knows what she wants without a lot of fuss. I get to play with color
and that is a lot of fun, for me. I think the end results reflect that.
Ann: So this show
title seems to have a lot of meaning.
Bill: I guess.
It is about the art in the show and partnership I have with Becky Iker
and it is also a really positive way to approach life, if you think
about it. If you assume the world is yours it is. Just ask Becky Iker.
I also want to say
Keith Banner has written two poems for the show that will be on
display. He is a an amazing writer and these poems capture something
raw and pure in these two suites of work.
Ann: Is there
anything else we need to know?
Bill: It will be a
fun show. I am very excited about showing at Nicholas Gallery. It is
the best place for this show. Toby Ellis of "The Hiders" will be
playing the steel pedal guitar at the opeing reception. This show is
sponsored by Visionaries and Voices.
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