Lowbrow
October 31 - February 14
Open House Artist Reception: Sunday, December 7, 1:00-5:00 pm
Before underground comic artist Robert Williams claimed it, the term lowbrow generally indicated a lack of cultural sophistication bred by a substandard education and disinterest in intellectual pursuits. Outside of art-speak, this, no doubt, remains the common connotation of the word, but, for appreciators of "Lowbrow" aesthetics, it opens up a whole eye-popping and liberating universe of its own.
The name "lowbrow art" was coined by Williams for his 1979 book, The Lowbrow Art of Robt. Williams. The title was a self-deprecating comment, as he believed art institutions would not recognize his work as fine art. In 1994, Williams co-founded Juxtapoz magazine, which became a pivotal publication in promoting and solidifying the movement.
The movement runs alongside and draws on a massive convergence of counterculture trends taking shape in post-World War II society, particularly in California. Hot-rod car customizing, auto pinstriping, surfing, Pacific island-inspired tiki culture, tattooing, punk style and street culture, psychedelia, hippie lifestyle, underground comics, and rock music —all stir together in a crazy soup recipe. Add in a fascination with "taboo" subjects from pulp fiction, sci-fi, horror, carnival imagery, mysticism, fantasy, and occult sources. Sprinkle with ironic pop and kitsch references. Shake up all the ingredients, and serve in a rapidly changing, turbulent society hellbound for the age of Aquarius.
Lowbrow art has gained mainstream acceptance by challenging the exclusionary nature of the traditional art world and leveraging grassroots support from underground communities. Over several decades, the movement evolved from a fringe subculture to a recognized and influential part of contemporary art.
A roster of artists from several neighborhood communities, including Pepperell, Worcester, Hudson, Fitchburg, Lowell, Somerville, and Salem, brings the lowbrow spirit into our gallery space. Thank you to Angela Ales, Brad Chapman Bleau, Classic Electric Tattoo, May DeViney, Dopewad, Chris Hanson, Kerve, Alisa Sickora Kleckner, Margarita Krylova, Roneld Lores, Nancy Lesofsky, Jennifer Lewis, Haley Mackenzie, Tim Palin, David Ruckle, Robb Sandagata, Tyler Santor, Ian Staber, Paul Tucker, Ron Weed, and Bruce Wood.
Ken Hansen,
Curator
Generously supported by the Groton Public Library Endowment Trust.
Exhibition Photo Gallery
The Owen Smith Shuman Art Gallery exhibits several shows each year, featuring artists from Groton and area communities, in both solo and group shows.