For those of you who were unable to see Clarence Boyce Monegar's work in person, please take the time to enjoy these pieces from our last exhibit. The exhibit was curated by Tom Jones.
In Clarence's lifetime, he deserted his family when they needed him most. He lost his job, drifted, drank, and eventually landed in the Neillsville jail.
"During his time spent in jail, Monegar requested paper, brush, and crayon, where he painted eight pictures of wild animals in realistic settings. Minute details of the anatomy of deer in full flight, the feather arrangement of a partridge, and the markings of a fallen tree in the forest were reproduced accurately and vividly. This was done from memory stored by careful observation and sensitive perception. The Clark County district attorney was so impressed with his talents he paroled Monegar to himself and drove him to the University of Wisconsin-Madison to introduce him to the artist in residence John Steuart Curry. The famous Regionalist painter Curry found the work had a distinct interpretive style, which he felt was far more impressive and original than other more established painters of wild life and the natural environment. His encouragement led Monegar to producing more work and exhibiting. "
Clarence was in his own isolation during the time that he created his work. What kinds of scenery can you create from memory during your own time of isolation?
In Clarence's lifetime, he deserted his family when they needed him most. He lost his job, drifted, drank, and eventually landed in the Neillsville jail.
"During his time spent in jail, Monegar requested paper, brush, and crayon, where he painted eight pictures of wild animals in realistic settings. Minute details of the anatomy of deer in full flight, the feather arrangement of a partridge, and the markings of a fallen tree in the forest were reproduced accurately and vividly. This was done from memory stored by careful observation and sensitive perception. The Clark County district attorney was so impressed with his talents he paroled Monegar to himself and drove him to the University of Wisconsin-Madison to introduce him to the artist in residence John Steuart Curry. The famous Regionalist painter Curry found the work had a distinct interpretive style, which he felt was far more impressive and original than other more established painters of wild life and the natural environment. His encouragement led Monegar to producing more work and exhibiting. "
Clarence was in his own isolation during the time that he created his work. What kinds of scenery can you create from memory during your own time of isolation?
The HCNMCC is planning out new exhibitions and wants your help!
Are there specific things about being Ho-Chunk that you believe the general public should know? Are there things about Ho-Chunk people and culture that you wish you knew more about? Are there specific stories from families, locations, events, etc. that you believe need to be highlighted within our new facility? Please let us know! You can also contact the Museum at [email protected]. |
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