James Pujdowski, "Grampus"
October 15, 2018
James Pujdowski, 243–Grampus, 1982. Oil on canvas.
Artist James Pujdowski is a longtime Detroiter whose art reflects his memories, sometimes in fun narratives with bold colors and brushstrokes. This painting is titled “Grampus,” referring specifically to the Risso’s Dolphin which happens to be the only species to belong to the genus Grampus. Pujdowski presents in this painting, in a cool palette with hints of orange, a dolphin set against a backdrop of sea and land. A sort of lasso, tinted with yellow and orange, wraps around the creature intensely, grabbing each of its fins and its neck to suggest its capture. Could we connect this back to a memory of Pujdowski? Perhaps he remembers seeing this sort of violation on TV, or maybe even thought of it when visiting an Ocean-themed attraction such as Sea World.
James Pujdowski received both his BFA and MFA in painting from Wayne State University. For twenty-three years he taught art at the University Liggett School in Grosse Pointe Park, where he also played the role of gallery coordinator. He paints in different mediums– watercolor and oil– and often draws to reflect on his canvases memories that are etched in his mind. This work was donated in 2008 by James Pearson Duffy.
Written by Danielle Cervera Bidigare