East Winds

Art

-

Gadsden Arts Center & Museum

Name/Title

East Winds

Entry/Object ID

2017.2

Description

Donated by Dr. Scott and Judy Gregory, this painting was given by the artist to the Gregorys' son as a wedding present. East Winds features an open architectural facade in Thursby's distinct checkerboard or brick pattern, with columns and stair steps flanking the sides. Like most of the environments he depicts, Thursby illustrated this building in lush and vibrant color and adorned the nooks with his interpretation of local fauna. One of the unique features of this piece is the large void in the center, implying a stage or theatre. In addition to the multicolored orbs scattered throughout the scene, a purposeful line of the orbs floats off to the left side of the piece. The title of the piece is an interesting choice, as the "east wind" is referenced often in literature and usually symbolizes change. Since this painting was a wedding present, the title most likely references the couple's new life, and perhaps the facade is an altar of sorts. Another possible explanation of the title may reference Gregory, Jr.'s interest in sailing, which might suggest the structure is a harbor or port.

Artwork Details

Medium

Ink, Paper, colored pencil

Acquisition

Accession

2017.2

Source or Donor

Gregory, Scott

Acquisition Method

Gift

Made/Created

Artist Information

Artist

Thursby, William

Role

Artist

Date made

1993

Dimensions

Height

18-1/4 in

Width

26-1/4 in

Interpretative Labels

Label

William "Bill" Thursby (1955-2001) Bill was a free spirit who was well loved by the Quincy community. He created beautiful feather masks and original paintings often comprised of found materials, but he is most known for his intricate and detailed ink and colored pencil drawings of local flora and fauna. He had no formal art training, and his work exuded a dynamic creativity. His artwork was selected for the 1993 Art in Gadsden poster, and he had a one man exhibition at Gadsden Arts in its first location on Adams Street in 1997. Bill died suddenly in 2001.

Created By

admin@catalogit.app

Create Date

November 10, 2016