Christian Rogers
Grant awarded Spring 2016
My paintings are an outlet to tell stories and present historical events in a new context. Romance, death, and persecution are all common motifs that are both timeless and topical. These themes transcend culture and time. I went to Chicago to see the home and collection of the late painter Roger Brown. Brown was a collector of everything. For him, there was no high art or low art. Art, craft, toys, props, and advertisements all exist on the same plain. Having the opportunity to visit the Roger Brown house has had great influence on my current work and thesis. I now have a more pluralistic definition of art and have developed a completely new sculptural practice. Roger Brown’s collection tough me to loosen up my compositions, be more present and honest in my work and to take greater risk.
