An evening with James Menzel Joseph
The July Compatriot meeting proved to be a very creative and provocative event with artist James Menzel Joseph. The veteran shared his experiences as a combat Marine during the Korean War and how it reflected on his art work and vision. During the war, his drawings and sketches, which were done while in the trenches, were published by Leatherneck magazine, a publication by and for Marines.
Jim shared intriguing stories about his youth and entering the service at a young age, his combat experience, and his college education through the GI bill the that led to a degree from the American Academy of Art. Jim also studied at the Art Institute of Chicago and later at the Art Students’ League of New York.
Beyond being a highly accomplished painter, he is also a sculptor and authored the book, Art and Survival (2009 Essential Publishing, available on Amazon). The book shares his observations and discoveries in a series of compelling and thought-provoking essays that accompany the beautifully reproduced paintings, sculptures, sketches and machetes.
Jim also went on to teach and believes, “this time-bending creative experience has the power to transform who we are, and by extension, our world”. He shared his experiences in Japan and how it made an impact on his art. A true renaissance man, Jim recently returned from Chile where he expanded his scope and knowledge of art.
The meeting comprised of a hands-on activity with clay to be better understand the connection of personal creativity. He stressed that using hands for expression through the medium can release the inner tensions that are created by memories. Jim’s theory is to embrace nature and our natural talents to combat the ravages of war in the mind.
You can learn more about Jim and his art at his website www.artandsurvival.org
