 | This work, titled "The Four Evangelists," was created by artist Laura James in 2000. A year later, she was commissioned to create images of a new reading of the Book of the Gospels. |
Works by an American artist who uses the iconography found in Ethiopian Christian art in her paintings of religious subjects and Bible stories will be featured in "Gospel Dreams: The Art of Laura James," on view Jan. 24-Feb. 28 at the Institute of Sacred Music (ISM).
James, originally from Brooklyn, New York, is a self-taught painter of Antiguan heritage. In her work, she attempts to forge links between African Americans, their countries of origin on the African continent and the often-overlooked presence of early Christianity there, while using imagery aimed at a contemporary audience. Her paintings encompass secular as well as sacred themes. Many feature bright colors and intricate patterns, as well as occasional surreal imagery; some depict women, families and scenes of everyday life.
In 2001, James was commissioned by Liturgy Training Publications to create 35 images for a new reading of the Book of the Gospels. The completed book has been praised both for its multicultural approach and for its beauty. "I feel as though we're really expanding on the Ethiopian iconic tradition," says James about the work.
The artist's paintings are widely collected and exhibited. Her images have appeared in several publications including "African American Wisdom," "The Oxford Illustrated History of the Bible" and "LOVE: A Celebration in Art and Literature."
James will honored at a reception being held 4:30-6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 3, at ISM, 409 Prospect St. The event is free and open to the public; free parking is available.
"Gospel Dreams: The Art of Laura James," presented with support from the Yale Divinity School, is open weekdays 9 a.m.-4 p.m. The exhibition is also free and open to the public. For more information, call ISM at (203) 432-5062, or visit the website at www.yale.edu/ism.
T H I S
Artworks based on sacred themes and Ethiopian iconography featured in ISM exhibit
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