John Henry

For me art is an outward expression of an inward search. Seeing this world with a discriminating eye and reflecting on what is perceived, I make object and images. In the creating of art I am a great believer in simplicity. By simplicity I do not mean ease of effort, but rather, paring down a chaotic overabundance of visual stimuli to a single message. I try to select what is most powerfully conveys the mood, feeling or theme and leave an impression for the viewer to complete the work.

Personal History:
The formal learning in art has been at the University of Dayton, the Dayton Art Institute, Antioch College and Norwich University attaining three degrees. Informally, every time I pick up a brush or sculpture tool learning takes place. I have taught on the college and university level for 38 years and have over 200 illustrations in print. I have had over 20 one-man shows in the United States and Canada. For the past 25 years I have been a professor in the Communication Design department at St. Clair County Community College. In the area of graphic design I have created many corporate identities and advertisements for companies and charities in the Blue Water are. I feel honored to have had a purchase award and be in the permanent collection at the Port Huron Museum along with sculptures at Comerica Part in Detroit.

Advice for an artist starting out:
Quantity elicits quality. Creating as many images as you can because with each experience you are making judgments about design and color and thereby learning. Work in a series of paintings or drawings and reflect upon the similarities and differences you see in your work and be prepared to rework them. Above all, create art for yourself and the vision you have of the world.

John Henry