Jim Nutt retrospective at David Nolan Gallery showcases Chicago Imagist evolution
From May 5 to June 26, 2010, the David Nolan Gallery in New York City presented "Jim Nutt: 'Trim' and Other Works: 1967–2010," which illustrated Nutt's artistic journey from his Chicago Imagist beginnings to his more polished later pieces. His early works, such as the 1967 piece "Miss Sue Port," were characterized by provocative themes inspired by burlesque and wrestling. In contrast to the New York Pop Art movement, Nutt, along with Chicago artists like Ed Paschke and Barbara Rossi, employed a distinctive personal drawing technique. By the 1970s, his work, including the 1974 drawing "There Are Reasons," began to explore deeper internal narratives. The exhibition included seven drawings and three paintings, prominently featuring "Trim" from 2010, which showcased his detailed portrayal of female subjects.
Key facts
- Exhibition ran May 5–June 26, 2010 at David Nolan Gallery
- Featured works spanning 1967–2010 by Jim Nutt
- Nutt is a key member of the Chicago Imagists group
- Early work drew from burlesque, wrestling posters, and pinball machines
- 1974 drawing "There Are Reasons" shows shift to internal narratives
- Later works focus on isolated women's portraits with tiny brushstrokes
- Only one 2010 painting ("Trim") was included in the exhibition
- Nutt produces only a few paintings each year due to meticulous process
Entities
Artists
- Jim Nutt
- Ed Paschke
- Karl Wirsum
- Barbara Rossi
- Roger Brown
- Suellen Rocca
- Christina Ramberg
- Ed Flood
- Art Green
- Gladys Nilsson
- Ray Yoshida
Institutions
- David Nolan Gallery
- School of the Art Institute
Locations
- New York City
- United States
- Chicago