he next time you attend a meeting in the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors Chambers, be sure to check out the rotating art on display! Sacramento County sponsors bi-annual art exhibitions in the Board Chambers, located at 700 “H" St. “Oceans of Air: Paintings by Jim Darke" is on display now through Jan. 19, 2024.
Jim is a local artist who shares with us the work that he has spent decades studying from above. Jim has been involved in flying for almost as long as he has been creating art. For him, the two activities are inextricably related. His variety of aviation experience served as the means to obtain the view that would inspire his work.
“The ocean of air above us is as much a studio and work surface for my painting as the canvas and paint itself," said Jim. Experience as a pilot, first as a young Naval Aviator, later and more extensively as a glider pilot, has allowed me to experience the sense of calm and sanctuary that comes from watching the effects of human activity and their importance appear to diminish and fade with an increase in altitude. I have always liked that and my painting strives to capture those effects."
Jim holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Bowling Green State University. His work has been shown in numerous juried exhibitions throughout California, including the Crocker Kingsley at Blue Line Gallery in Roseville.
“My work is about examining the physical and emotional sensations that are evoked by being
immersed in a large space," said Jim. “I'm also interested in how atmospheric light colors shape our perception of that space."
Visitors are welcome to view the art when meetings are in session. To check when the next meeting is scheduled, view the online Board Meeting Calendar.
