ARTS “The Ghosts of Jazz”
The "Ghosts of Jazz"
Artist Statement: By Barbara Freeman
The "Ghosts of Jazz" is an important series because it gives honor and mention to the great musicians who brought the only original American art form to the world.My goal was to honor these "Great Ones",who have passed.In painting these portraits, I tried to create a visual sense of sound.
By using high contrasts of blues and whites,my goal was to create a special world,and invite the observer in.I also wanted to create a special relationship between the individual musician and his instrument ,by having them connected and complimenting each other.
The history of Jazz has threads that run through out my family's history. My Grandfather "Benny",owned a music store in Baltimore during the early part of the last century.He knew Ethel Waters,and gave her a job to get her off the streets. He was arrested for selling , what was known then as "Race Records". It was illegal for white store owners to sell "Race Records", which was,of course Jazz.
He refused, thus spending the night in jail,calling the arresting officers names I am too much of a lady to mention.
My late father "Paul"...Growing up hearing the likes of King Oliver,Louis Armstrong,and Bessie Smith, left a deep impression on the Father's personality. He was childlike,with an incredible energy and curiosity about life. He took to this music,developing a love of the music,as his Father did before him.
My Father was a Liquor Salesman in New York City,during the birth of "Bee-Bop". Knowing my Father, I am sure he chose this profession so he would be where his idolscould be found. These include the likes of Art Tatum, Charlie Parker,Dizzy Gillespi, Billy Holiday, Lester Young ,Coleman hawkins,and Fats Waller.
I grew up, sitting on my Father's knee listening to stories about 52nd street, beautiful women, and late night jam sessions.
The first song I remember was hearing Ella Fitzgerald's "Lullaby of Birdland". I would hold my Teddy Bear,and drift off to sleep. There werer always parties at my house. Jazz Legends would be as close, as a trip downstairs. If I was a good girl,and finished my homework, maybe I would get lucky,and be right there in the den,where many late night jam sessions took place.
Jazz is,and will always be my heart, my first language,and my first love.
These paintings are my way of sharing that love with the world.
Artist : Barbara Freeman
Interested Parties please contact Barbara here
