Past Exhibition

James B. Thompson: Fragments In Time

January 23 – March 26, 2016

Melvin Henderson-Rubio Gallery

From Jan. 23 through March 26, 2016, the Hallie Ford Museum of Art will present a twenty-year retrospective exhibition,“Fragments in Time,” for Willamette University’s art faculty member James B. Thompson, in the Melvin Henderson-Rubio Gallery.  

“Fragments in Time” explores the development of Thompson’s work during the past two decades, and features 179 artworks that range through 11 series, starting with Thompson’s “Certain Situations” from the mid-1990s, to his most recent “Forgotten Biography of Tools” from 2015. Utilizing various mediums — including mixed-media, painting, intaglio prints, embossed paper and kiln-formed glass — Thompson focuses on his various interests in ancient history, golf, changing landscapes, life in a French village and even hand tools, by incorporating  fragmented references to these in his art making process.   

Portland, Oregon art writer and critic Bob Hicks says, “In keeping with his theory of a fragmented universe, Thompson creates situations in his art, but not stories: juxtapositions, suggestions, leftover objects and ideas. Then like a collagist of objects and ideas alike, he creates something new.”

In addition to the objects on display, the exhibition is accompanied by a full-color, 128 page book by Portland, Oregon art writer and critic Bob Hicks.

Exhibition Related Events

Lecture
Conceptual Art Practices, Processes and Projects
On Jan. 22, Thompson will discuss his work in an illustrated lecture from 5-6 p.m. in the Roger Hull Lecture Hall. A preview reception will follow in the lobby and galleries downstairs. Admission to the lecture is complimentary.

Evening for Educators
On Feb. 2 educators are invited to join Elizabeth Garrison, The Cameron Paulin Curator of Education, for a preview of the exhibition from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. This workshop is designed to help teachers prepare students for a field trip to the exhibition, as well as broaden curriculum concepts for use in the classroom. Advance registration for this free workshop is required by Feb. 1. Call 503-370-6855.

Tuesday Gallery Talks
Join staff and docents for tours of the exhibition on Feb. 2, Feb. 9, March 1, March 8 and March 22. Tours begin at 12:30 p.m. and are free and open to the public. 

Exhibition Catalogue

By Bob Hicks
Full-color, 128 pages
Hardcover
Available in the museum store
$29.95

Financial Support

This exhibition has been supported by funds from the Maribeth Collins Art Exhibition Fund, with additional financial support provided by general operating support grants from the City of Salem’s Transient Occupancy Tax fund and the Oregon Arts Commission.