Bonding

Catalog - Opening Statement

by: Mary Salvante
Director and Chief Curator
Rowan University Art gallery & Museum

Jack Larimore embodies the spirit of a maker, which provokes contemplation on the significance of that designation. I find it most aptly characterizes him as a visionary thinker, shaping his creative pursuits. Materials serve as the catalyst for his intuitive and philosophical creative explorations, guiding his hands and infusing his work with themes and concepts inspired by their inherent qualities. Jack’s creative muse draws from the nuanced interplay of nature, where he perceives patterns and processes that speak to resilience, adaptability, and interconnectedness. As I reflect on the works in Bonding I am struck by their visual allure and refined craftsmanship, prompting profound reflections on the narratives they convey.

The decision to extend an invitation to Jack for an exhibition at the Rowan University Art Gallery & Museum was motivated by his artistic methodology. Of particular interest is his thoughtful sourcing of materials, predominantly from his South Jersey farmstead and adjacent undeveloped environs, often juxtaposing organic elements with fabricated ones. It becomes evident that Jack’s choice of materials and meticulous crafting techniques evoke the histories, mythologies, and narratives intrinsic to these rural surroundings.

In essence, Bonding isn’t just a collection of artworks; it’s a journey into the soul of a maker and his profound relationship with his process and the materials that fuel it.

I am deeply grateful for Jack’s interest in participating in an exhibition, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to him and his team for their invaluable support in bringing this show to fruition.