Exhibitions
JOHN ROBERTS: AND THE DARKNESS HAS NOT OVERCOME IT
David Lusk Gallery Memphis / 97 Tillman St. July 16 - August 24th
John Roberts
In And the Darkness Has Not Overcome It, Roberts masterfully captures his childhood experiences, family ties, and the landscapes of Searcy, AR. Though deeply personal, his narratives of familial relations and placemaking resonate universally, inviting viewers into a shared human experience. Inspired by regionalist painters like Thomas Hart Benton, Grant Wood, and Carroll Cloar, Roberts uses hyper-realistic styles, symmetry, and dramatic lighting to highlight the extraordinary in the mundane. These techniques not only make his artwork visually compelling but also allow him to weave intricate dynamics and narratives with his characters.
Of this newest body of work, Roberts elaborates on his vision:
"With these works, I aim to tell the story of four generations of my mother's family and how the first generation impacts the last. It is a tale of good versus evil, a celebration of light overcoming darkness, and the resilience of the human spirit."
Roberts' themes are evident in his stylistic choices throughout this collection. In Day at the Damsite, the vibrant sky and water colors evoke childhood joy and nostalgia, while the stark shadows on the youthful faces hint at underlying tensions. The boy's candid expression captures the essence of summer nostalgia, and the dynamic scene fosters a deep connection between the viewer and the characters. This connection is further enhanced by the flowing blue sky and the rock edges resembling a river's course.
"With each successive generation, healing and life through time, forgiveness, and reconciliation grow until evil is rendered powerless. It seeks refuge from the light but finds none."
The title piece, And the Darkness Has Not Overcome It, perfectly embodies this idea. Viewers can engage with various visual elements: a mother figure staring blankly from a dark room at three girls, a father figure scowling behind a car, and a large pig in the corner near the girls. Each element carries an ambiguous emotional significance. The relationship between the five characters holds an emotional significance, and one can sense heavy tensions; however, it is hard to pinpoint the exact feelings these characters are projecting. These distinctive depictions of people and places reflect Roberts' deep admiration for them, infusing his works with a uniquely human quality that captivates the viewer's attention.
John Roberts was born in Memphis, TN, and grew up in Searcy, AR. He holds a BFA in Painting and Drawing from Harding University and an MFA in Painting and Drawing from the University of Arkansas. As a long-time tombstone etcher, he has encountered the supernatural in his work.
