Chris Ware draws real emotion
From his home and studio in the Chicago-adjacent town of Oak Park, Illinois, Chris Ware evidences the great narrative power of the comic art form. Telling stories about people in suburban midwestern neighborhoods, Ware poignantly reflects on the role of memory in constructing identity.
“As human beings, we can’t really be any better or hope for anything better until you can empathize with other people and to try to feel not only for them but, hopefully, in a sense even maybe through them a little bit,” said Ware in our “Chicago” episode.
“There’s so much storytelling that’s not like that—it feels like comics are a good place to do it.”
Deepen your connection to Art21
Explore: Drawing
Laleh Khorramian at a temporary home and studio in Campbell Hall, NY, 2013. Production still from the New York Close Up film, “Laleh Khorramian’s Epic Animations.” © Art21, Inc. 2013.
Both a discipline to be mastered and a complementary tool in the artmaking process, drawing captures a dynamism and versatility that can be harnessed en route to the full realization of a work.
Observe the drawing constraints employed by Joan Jonas, embrace calmness with the intricate stenciled meditations of Louise Despont, and journey through the epic animated drawings of Laleh Khorramian in our Drawing collection.
Upcoming workshop for educators
Join us on Tuesday, September 14, at 6:00 p.m. ET, for the latest installment of our new five-part professional development series exploring how artists use the five senses in their practice.
For “Visionaries,” behold artists with the vision to consider the human eye. Notice shape, position, brightness, and color during this glimpse into the role of sight in contemporary art.
The program is free and will take place via Zoom.
Visit our education calendar for a list of upcoming workshops for educators.
The gift of inspiration
As a nonprofit organization, Art21 relies on the generosity of viewers like you to produce engaging films and educational resources on contemporary artists and art.
If you’ve felt inspired by our films, please consider donating today. Your gift will ensure the stories, art, and ideas of some of the most innovative artists of our time continue to reach and inspire viewers worldwide. Thank you for making a difference.
