More Thoughts on Thornton Dial

I have had an opportunity to view the exhibit, Hard Truths—The Art of Thornton Dial. Last week I attended a docent-led tour of the exhibit along with about 10 others individuals. I have been eagerly anticipating the viewing the art work of Mr. Dial for some time. I was not disappointed. This exhibit at the Indianapolis Museum of Art contains 70 of Dial’s large-scale paintings.

This show mostly contains Dial's large work, assemblages, but also includes water colorings and drawings. Some of his assemblages cover most of the walls and are very stunning. A few of the assemblages are free-standing and filled with a lot of symbolism. I found Dial’s work to be exciting, emotional and inspirational. It is hard to view this show without feeling something.

The exhibit provides lots of detailed information about each of the pieces of art work. I think a lot of Thornton Dial’s work speaks for itself. I found the materials (found objects) included in these assemblages fascinating. Dial spent some time as a metalworker. The pieces of metal sculpture, wires, and fences I thought were especially appealing. I have seen work by other contemporary artists that use found objects. I don’t believe any match the creativity that is reflected in Dial’s work.

I think I will view the show again on my own before it leaves. This exhibition will be at the IMA until September 18. The show will then go to New Orleans, Charlotte, N.C. and Atlanta.


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Thornton Dial American Artist

A new exhibit recently opened at the Indianapolis Museum of Art. Hard Truths: The Art of Thornton Dial. I have already purchased the exhibition catalog. I couldn’t wait. Now I am eager to see Mr. Dial’s art work up close. I will be viewing the exhibit with a curator in the next few weeks. Along with all the excitement this show brings, there is also controversy. It seems that some critics are having a difficult time defining the work of this Black American contemporary artist from the South. Race and politics are often involved in the discussions of Thornton Dial’s work. There are some critics who will not include him in the “fine” art world but want to define Thornton Dial’s work as “folk-art” or “self-taught art”.

From what I have read, Mr. Dial’s work mostly includes significant social and cultural concerns. The work is exciting and inspiring. Like many other contemporary artists today he makes good use of found objects. One of my favorite pieces of art work by Thornton Dial is “Who Got the Corn?” Like most of his work, this piece is large. It is a canvas on wood covered with wire, found metal, and chicken wire. This work has been spray painted in shades of yellow.

I’m looking forward to learning more about Thornton Dial, American artist, and viewing the exhibition. I'm not sure that I care how the critics define his work. I do believe that most viewers will be moved by Thornton Dial's extraordinary art.


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