5th Annual Artist VIP List: Jim Gemake

Assemblage is intrinsically deceptive: Appearing to be randomly developed, unplanned and ultimately a spontaneous conception, works well done are nevertheless statements of time, reconciling past with present and looking to the future. Gemake’s works are unapologetically designed in order and discipline. Structural, but no less organic, trappings and cagelike elements are consistently used, bringing to mind questions of entrapment and ownership. Elements are weathered, distressed by time, yet robust and visibly strong. Not so subliminal arrows and labels are fragments bringing in a textural quality, instructive but not prescriptive. Pieces are attentive, almost looking back at you from the wall, betraying a formidable character despite the understated nature.