John Taylor-Lehman
November offers new treasures from found objects at the ZAAP Gallery's First Friday Gallery Hop
In meeting John Taylor-Lehman, the thought "here is a man of knowledge" comes to mind. He's tall, lean and has a keen sense of humor. In class at Tri-Valley High where he teaches Biology, Chemistry, Oceanography and Zoology, he is very candid in his lesson planning and works very hard with his students so they can not only achieve their scholastic goals, but they can incorporate nature and natural sciences into their daily lives. At the very least, each student has a much greater appreciation for nature and issues pertaining to environmental well-being and responsibility. I have only recently become acquainted with Mr. Taylor-Lehman, the artist, whom The Zanesville Appalachian Arts Project is featuring as their Artist of the Month for November.
In talking with John about his art, he is very humble. He states "I have some artistic talent but I'm not sure if I would be considered an artist. Some people would consider my work to be a craft and therefore I am a craftsman." He continues "The title is irrelevant to me. In each piece, I am trying to improve my technique and clarity in personal expression." He recalls how his life in college really broadened his exposure and appreciation to the artistic world. Prior to that, his focus was on math and science. In considering his greatest artistic influences, Andy Warhol comes to mind but he feels that the greater influence is the work of innumerable traditional artists in Mexico. He and his wife lived in Brownsville, Texas for several years, which is on the border of Mexico. There they would visit many different areas in Mexico and collect pieces of traditional art. He feels certain that is where his use of natural and recycled materials comes from.
As you would imagine, his inspiration comes from nature whether it be from his surroundings in Zanesville or from his travels to exotic locations. "Images of the coral reefs and mahogany carvers in the Bahamas, the fog shrouded jungle hills in Belize, and the statues and craftsmen on Easter Island are all bouncing around in my head waiting to be used in my own work." he states. He said that he has done some painting in acrylic but that is not his interest at this time.
His favorite place to create his unique works of art is in his backyard in Zanesville. He has accumulated a variety of materials in his garage and stones in his yard that are easily accessible. It gives him the freedom to spread his work out (or several pieces at the same time) and create. He also says he uses some noisy equipment that makes a big mess. His working creativity thrives in the great outdoors.
This featured artist begins his work with a concept in mind. When he feels he has reached completion, he stops and puts it away for a while. After looking at it with a fresh set of eyes, he then makes his final decision. He states "More crucial to my decision is the opinion of my wife, Janet. Her suggestions have been immensely helpful." He and his wife Janet (who is a photography and fabric artist with a keen eye herself) bounce ideas off of each other about every aspect of their lives. John states "She has been a critic, a fan and a muse. I trust her opinion about each work even though I many not like it."
"Old to New" is the theme of his debut collection for November. Each work is created from pieces of recyclable materials. He has used things from tires, car parts found while walking, drift wood, barn siding and beams. He proudly states "This show will have 'shrines' to the automobile, large silhouettes and sculptures." This exhibit will truly offer something for everyone, especially to those who enjoy the clever use of the ordinary into extraordinary.
As a member of The Zanesville Appalachian Arts Project, Mr. Taylor-Lehman is inspired by ZAAP's longevity in supporting the efforts of local artists. "There have been dedicated people through the years that have willingly taken charge to keep the organization thriving. The gallery always looks great on the 1st Friday events even when it is full of guests." The ZAAP Gallery is located on 625 Main Street in Zanesville. Their hours are Thursday through Sunday 1 to 5 pm. They will be open and celebrating the work of John Taylor-Lehman's "Old to New" debut during the First Friday Downtown Gallery Hop on November 6 from 6 to 9 pm. Enjoy the show!
-Shelley Tolliver
