For me the show itself is art -- Thoughts on "Through The Envelope" by John Simpkins

This show, Through The Envelope, is all about what I enjoy most about life: process.  Paul Bennett, Todd Dow and I began discussing this show early in this year, and the process has lead us to this moment, the opening day of the exhibit.  The title of  the show emerged after many casual gatherings sitting and free-thinking while sipping espressos at local Sisters coffee houses.  The wonderment of the concept was great fun, and watching the show take a shape and a direction is very much the way I paint.

Getting a spark of an idea, sometimes from dreams, or even just the way light plays off of an object, might lead to the beginning of a panel.  The initial strokes of venetian red gesso on a panel sets the foundation for what may come.  This signals an intention of creation.  I tend to watch over my creative muse as best I can, perhaps bending to the gratification of one of Janit Brockway's oatmeal cookies at The Navigator News here in Sisters!  Massaging the creative spirit, and in the case of a show like this, thinking of the effect all the work will have upon the viewer when shown together, is of great importance to me.  I like to include different shapes, complement the use of color and design, and experiment with the subject.  And, yes, I have discovered that cookies and espresso often encourage this activity!

For me the show itself is art.  Perhaps like dining on fine cuisine, I hope that this show provides both visual and spiritual delights.  My wish and desire is that the viewer's eye will revel in the concert of colors and shapes, then upon closer examination, be delighted by the content and detail of each work.

There was a marvelous sense of something akin to "family" as I produced this show.  Over the six months of production there have been highs and lows, challenges to be solved, and the childlike joy of acting on the sparks of creativity that make me smile.  Living with these 20 pieces of  work, saving them for the opening on August 11th, seeing them each day, imagining them hanging together in a show, this act itself is an art for me.   Each piece has it's own spirit and personality,  and to have them shown together is not unlike one of the gatherings of my family and relatives on a holiday!  The process of creating this show has been a delight for me.  I hope you will enjoy the work.

John Simpkins -- August 2007

Please plan on joining us for a wonderful evening of lively conversation, great art, refreshments and live music by Jacob French!  High Desert Gallery is honored to host an artist in attendance reception for Paul Alan Bennett and John Simpkins.
Date:  Saturday, August 11, 2007
Time:  4:00PM to 7:30PM
Location: High Desert Gallery -- 281 W Cascade Avenue Sisters Oregon 97759
Info:  541-388-8964 x 3

For additional information about the artists and the gallery please visit: www.highdesertgallery.com or call 541-388-8964. High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing, The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ is an award winning fine art gallery with retail locations in Bend (Opening Fall of 2008), Redmond and Sisters Oregon specializes in Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ and Stellar Custom Framing.  High Desert Gallery's online sales gallery can be found at www.highdesertgallery.biz . 

"The Chase" -- Original artwork by John Simpkins.  All rights reserved and copyright 2007.  Use of image is restricted and prohibited without prior written permision.  High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon content copyright 2007.  The Art & Soul of Central Oregon™ and Central Oregon Artists & Beyond™ are trademarks of High Desert Gallery & Custom Framing of Central Oregon.