Discover the Abstract Art of Jo Sandman at the Knoxville Museum of Art
Knoxville is buzzing with excitement as the Knoxville Museum of Art (KMA) rolls out its latest exhibition, featuring the captivating work of renowned artist Jo Sandman. Titled “Traces,” this fantastic display runs now through November 10th and promises to take visitors on a journey through the evolution of abstract art.
During a recent tour led by KMA curator Stephen Wicks, I had the chance to dive into Sandman’s artistic world. Upon entering the exhibit, you’re greeted with an arrangement that’s not just a collection of art but also a chronological narrative of Sandman’s creative journey. The early works are situated to the right of the entrance and wrap around the room—sort of a visual timelapse of the artist’s evolution. Born in 1931, Sandman’s love for art blossomed early on, leading her to apply to the iconic Black Mountain College (BMC) in 1951, after a few attempts to gain acceptance.
A Hub of Creativity
Her time at BMC was pivotal in Sandman’s growth as an artist. This was the era when she learned from some of the greats, including Ben Shahn, Aaron Siskind, and Robert Motherwell. Wicks pointed out that this environment nurtured her passion for experimental, abstract art. It was here that she started using “cast off” materials—items like discarded drop cloths, industrial materials such as radiator hoses, tar, and caulk. As I walked through the exhibit counterclockwise, I could see how she transitioned from traditional abstract paintings to increasingly avant-garde forms.
One striking piece caught my eye—an artwork devoid of paint or ink. Instead, the beauty emerged from the carefully ironed folds in the linen, showcasing Sandman’s ingenuity. Wicks shared with me that, unlike many artists, Sandman never lingered on a specific style. He commented, “She would come up with a new idea featuring a particular material, explore it fully, and then move on to something fresh.” Each grouping of art felt like progressive experiments from a scientist determined to innovate.
The Art of Discovery
One particular artwork made from assembled drop cloths struck a chord with me—it depicted an abstract representation of a room, believed to be Sandman’s art studio. Wicks explained that Sandman often left her pieces open for interpretation, allowing the viewer to derive their own meanings. Even as a young mother, Sandman didn’t let the demands of parenting stop her; she would create small collages while her child napped, continually pushing the boundaries of her creativity.
In one of her collections, Sandman transformed ordinary radiator hoses—bought from an automotive store—into stunning pieces of art. When the store clerk inquired about her plans, her enthusiastic response was, “I’m an artist and I’m going to play with them.” And play she did, eventually bringing the beat-up hoses to life in unique artistic expressions that are now featured in the exhibition.
Art Beyond Limits
Despite challenges like a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome in her 70s, Sandman refused to relent. Instead of stepping back, she innovatively used x-ray photographs taken during her medical visits, exploring “this internal landscape,” as Wicks phrased it. Now in her 90s, the most recent piece showcased in the KMA is from 2014—a striking image created from arranging a snake skin on photo-sensitive paper. Wicks remarks on how this work serves as a self-portrait of Sandman’s spirit, likening her to a snake that sheds its skin and continuously reinvents itself.
Jo Sandman’s journey as an artist reminds us of the importance of pushing beyond our own limits, exploring new styles, and finding inspiration in the everyday. If you’re in the Knoxville area, don’t miss the chance to experience this thought-provoking exhibition, which is free to the public. The museum is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Tuesday through Saturday and from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm Sunday, closed on Mondays. Take a stroll through “Traces” and immerse yourself in the creative world of Jo Sandman before it wraps up on November 10th!
