Hanging at Gallery 119 in downtown Jackson is a show of 33 pieces by the Florida based duo Gary Patterson and Marion Barnes. They collaborate on assemblages that typically focus on caricatures of blues and jazz musicians, but also delve into subjects of the rural life that is behind this type of music such as poverty and religion. Like the music that inspires the artwork there is a real entertainment aspect to the work. Found objects mixed with well crafted drawing and painting cause the viewer to stick around for a longer look moving the work beyond pure illustration. Patterson/Barnes' work has a close connection with one of my favorite artists, Benny Andrews. He also uses exaggeration and mixed media to depict African-American lifestyle and hardship. Here is a selection from the show...
Too tired to fight
Not in my backyard
Mississippi Blues
Just as I am
John Lee Hooker/I don't want to hear it
I'm glad you're gone
Don't get left behind
Bobby Rush/Turn on your love light
B.B. King
Michael Doucet and Dennis McGee/Alligator Bayou
Those are great! I especially like "Not in My Backyard."
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