August 2015

John Baeder to give Art Talk with Susan Knowles
Wednesday, August 26, 6 to 7:30pm

NASHVILLE— Revered artist John Baeder and local art historian Susan Knowles are coming together for a special Question & Answer Art Talk on August 26, from 6 to 7:30 pm, to celebrate the extension of Haynes Galleries’ summer show “Art Nashville.” The exhibition is a showcase of artists who hold Nashville close to their hearts and features John Baeder’s iconic photography. The show will continue until September 26. 

Baeder is nationally recognized for his endearing paintings of roadside diners and classic Americana. “Art Nashville” exhibits his photography, a lesser known but equally compelling portion of his work. His images of Nashville and the surrounding areas are gritty, yet charming, and are sure to send viewers down memory lane.

Photography has always been an integral part of Baeder’s painting process. “I think of the photograph in the way a writer thinks of notes,” says Beader. “People think I just take a photograph and paint it. I think of the photograph as a large visual note, and I give myself back to it on the canvas.”

A long time friend of Baeder’s and distinguished independent curator, Susan Knowles will lead the live interview in the gallery. The two will discuss Baeder’s relationship with the camera, which started when he was very young and received his first “Baby Brownie.” 

Baeder began his career as an award-winning art director in New York. He decided to leave advertising in the early 1970s to pursue a full-time artistic career. He began painting the roadside diners and eateries that fascinated him during his youth— and he hasn’t stopped since. His work has been featured in over 30 solo exhibitions in the U.S. and abroad and is included in the permanent collections of museums across the country. 

Baeder’s work in “Art Nashville” are large, vibrant photographs depicting the culture of everyday life— mom-and-pop shops, gas stations, tire service centers— and also smaller black-and-white shots from his worldly travels. Baeder has an affinity for depicting the culture of the common folk, a group he respects tremendously.

At the end of the talk, Baeder and Knowles will open the floor to the audience for questions. 

Both the event and exhibition are free and open to the public and is one of several events featuring the celebrated artists in “Art Nashville,” which will remain on view until September 26.