Note
James Gibson (1938-2017)
Devil Palms
Oil on Upson Board circa mid-1960s
Image size 24" X 48"
As one of the original artists in the group, James Gibson painted from almost the very beginning of the group's early foundation to the latter years of his life. Although the look of his works and technique changed over the years, his work was always discernibly his alone. James' close friend Alfred Hair encouraged him to paint, and he became one of the first five Highwaymen artists. Gibson and Hair constantly competed as friends with each other. It started with high school sports and continued into their realm of making art. James Gibson worked hard and had a prolific career as a Highwaymen artist; he may have created more paintings than any other artists in the group.
This commanding piece from James Gibson's notorious "monochrome era" in the mid-1960s features the original frame that he crafted and painted in black and gold. Works of this size by him are notably rare. The painting embodies the concept of "speed painting," showcasing "fast grass" in the foreground and "fast trees" in the distant background. A large, moss-draped "reverse C" tree occupies the right side of the composition, while stilled waters reflectively shimmer under an intense crimson sky, where two "devil-like palms" seem to gaze directly back at the viewer. The artwork captures an ominous mood, prompting one to wonder whether they feel threatened or fascinated, most likely both.