Garage Art
In 1974 I received my BA from WSU in Education. Years later I studied Creative Arts in Education and achieved an MA. For 31 years I was an educator, working at all levels K-12. Playing college football and coaching sports made me appreciate the power of a crowd of people. Throughout the years, I continued to be awed by the energy of crowds in many diverse environments.
Sports teams, festivals, concerts, political rallies and protests gave me many opportunities to be part of a crowd. Intrigued by the graffiti art on Capitol Hill, I felt the impact and power of art. It hit me in the spring of 2020 that this was what I was meant to do. The pandemic and lockdown gave me lots of extra time. After setting up a studio in my garage, I started painting crowds and never stopped.
In January 2022 I had a stroke that paralyzed my right side. Swedish Hospital’s Cherry Hill Acute Rehab Center saved my life and strengthened my dedication to art. I made an amazing recovery, thanks to all of the staff there who worked with me. When I came home after 20 days one of the first things, I did was pick up my paint brush and finish a crowd of emergency room workers. I couldn’t believe my steady hand with that brush. I was meant to do this. My purpose in life at this time, was realized.
I focus on crowds of people and the energy they create. I hope the viewers will look closely at the details and realize the potential for conversation. Of course, as an educator I’m always thinking of its value for discussion. My pieces represent the diversity of our community with a focus on embracing our differences. As people view my work, I would like them to smile and be wowed by my interpretation.
Jerry's work available at Fogue Studios
