HIGH NOON ART AND MYTHMAKING: B. J. PARKER, ARTIST AND TEACHER

Art and Mythmaking: B. J. Parker, Artist and Teacher

In this presentation artist and teacher B. J. Parker discusses the relationship between myth and figurative painting. Drawing on his academic background in ancient Near Eastern religion and visual research as an artist, B. J. desribes the role of myth in our current social context and how artists are especially suited to new ways of advancing in meaning making.

B. J. Parker, is a realist artist based in Saint Louis, Missouri. His artistic approach amalgamates the ideas he learned from studying with Patricia Watwood, Sadie Valeri, and Ron Cheek as well as his graduate work in ancient Near Eastern Religion. B. J.’s work explores the in-betweenness of the human condition through figurative creations in graphite, charcoal, and oil. He employs traditional practices dating back to the Renaissance as a means of meditating on the suffering and triumphs of life. Through engaging the liminality between pain and joy, his work seeks to make space for each person to consider the value of that individual’s own life.

The High Noon series offers free cultural and artistic programming, during your lunch hour! The High Noon series features St. Louis talents from across the arts, cultural, and educational spectrum. Spend a lunch hour enjoying presentations and performances in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere – take a break, and feel free to bring your lunch!

High Noons in the Listening Room at High Low (3301 Washington Avenue) take place every Thursday from 12 to 1PM