James W. Meade: A Lifetime of Drawing Exhibit on Display at USM

Fri, 08/25/2023 - 02:32pm | By: Caroline Neese

The University of Southern Mississippi’s (USM) Gallery of Art and Design presents James W. Meade: A Lifetime of Drawing, a retrospective exhibition of works by James Walter Meade in celebration of his lifetime of art making and 50+ years of teaching, drawing, and painting at USM.

The exhibition, sponsored by Partners for the Arts, opens Friday, August 25 with a public reception from 5-7 p.m. in the George Hurst Building in the Gallery of Art and Design. The exhibition runs through September 22, 2023.

James W. Meade: A Lifetime of Drawing includes over 100 works spanning over 60 years of drawings by James Meade, including his first self-portrait drawing from high school and drawings from his graduate and undergraduate studies.

A native of Virginia, Meade attended the University of Virginia-Wise and obtained bachelor’s and master’s degrees in art from East Tennessee State University and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Georgia. Meade studied under the renowned American artist Hiram Williams.

Meade has a lifetime of experience as a world-renowned artist. Meade’s work has been displayed in approximately 140 exhibitions, including 40 one-man shows and 17 overseas. He’s also lectured at universities in Asia and Europe.

Meade’s accomplishments as a world-renowned artist are evident; however, his lasting legacy  lies in his dedication as an educator. Meade began his journey at USM in 1971 when he arrived at the Hattiesburg campus to join the faculty of its then Department of Art as an assistant professor. Meade has left an indelible mark on USM by sharing his lifetime of artistic experience and expertise with generations of students.

Former student JJ Foley reflects fondly on his time as Meade’s student. “He taught with enthusiasm, with honesty, and respect. We became very dear friends and his knowledge and genuine love continues to inspire and encourage me to this day, 47 years after I first entered his classroom,” Foley said.

"Jim Meade's way of thinking about art making and the clarity of his teaching were so important to me. His influence affected me as I know it did many others,” said former student Ken Weathersby. “It was foundational to my studio practice and has always informed my own teaching."

Longtime friend and colleague Janet Gorzegno, professor of drawing and painting, notes the impact Meade’s expertise and craft has had on the USM art community.

"My longtime Drawing and Painting colleague and friend James Walter Meade has touched many souls throughout his 50+ years at USM. His color class is legendary. His brilliant instruction on linear and tonal composition has set numerous art students on a lifetime path to create significant and impactful visual art,” said Gorzegno.

James W. Meade: A Lifetime of Drawing will “reveal a compelling blend of refined aesthetic sophistication with raw personal honesty. Visually engaging as a gestalt, Meade's drawings powerfully reflect the human spirit,” said Gorzegno. “Working with James Walter Meade over the years in Drawing and Painting has not only energized my sense of purpose for our program, it has enriched my life."

The exhibit can be viewed at the Gallery of Art and Design in the George Hurst Building, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. For questions, contact Mark Rigsby at 601-266-5200.