A new exhibition titled Living Collection: Works on Paper by Jason Eisner is showcasing the artist’s latest creations at St. Ambrose University’s Morrissey Gallery until April 24, 2024. The gallery, located at 2101 Gaines Street in Davenport, Iowa, features works that capture the essence of Eisner’s artistic journey, illustrating a life immersed in art and nature.
Eisner, who has spent the past 30 years in New York City, reflects on his creative process in this exhibit. He describes his pieces as “found out of the corner of the eye and drawn while on break, sitting in the grass.” This sentiment reveals the organic nature of his work, which draws inspiration from his surroundings and daily experiences.
Born and raised in Illinois, Eisner earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Knox College and a Painting Certificate from the New York Studio School. His dual career as an artist and horticulturalist adds depth to his art, as he currently works as a Master Pruner at the Green-Wood Cemetery and Arboretum in Brooklyn. This nearly 500-acre space is home to over 8,000 trees, shrubs, and plants, providing an ongoing source of inspiration for his artistic endeavors.
As noted in press materials regarding the exhibition, “When does one become an artist? When does an artist make art?” Eisner exemplifies the notion that an artist’s identity is intrinsic, having drawn and painted throughout his life. Even as his professional responsibilities pull him outdoors, he continuously seeks moments to create, merging his roles in a unique and fulfilling manner.
Visitors to the Morrissey Gallery can explore Eisner’s work free of charge. The gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering an opportunity for art enthusiasts to engage with his creations. For additional information, interested individuals can contact the gallery at (563) 333-6444 or visit their Facebook page at Facebook.com/CatichGallerySAU.
Eisner’s Living Collection not only highlights his artistic talent but also invites viewers to appreciate the beauty of nature as a vital component of the artistic experience. As the exhibition continues through April 24, it serves as a reminder of the interplay between art and the environment, encouraging a deeper connection between the two.