Photos, story by Lou Perri

One of South Jersey’s most popular art galleries, Ocean Galleries, brings in The Art of John Lennon, a collection of art selected from “rare archival sketches and representative of his whimsical and thought provoking imagery.The gallery’s owner Kim Miller, noted that each print is reproduced utilizing the sophisticated and detailed standards typical for archival fine art printing processes, guided, approved and hand-signed by Yoko Ono.

The original plan of the Art of John Lennon was to be on view at the gallery through Sunday, June 28th. However, due to the popularity of the exhibit, Ocean Galleries will be moving the exhibition artwork to their Avalon location (2199 Ocean Drive) where it will be hung from Friday, June 26 through Sunday, July 5 and is free to the public.

At a reception for the collection curator Michele Rosen, on Friday, June 18th, it was noted the exhibit supports the artist’s philanthropic vision of a world free from hunger. Although the exhibit is free, a donation of $5 or more per person is suggested. which will support the Southern Branch of the Community FoodBank of New Jersey.

In his art,  Ms Rosen noted, John Lennon, the legendary musician, songwriter, poet, philosopher, and artist, delivered a consistent message – peace and love.  Like his music, his artwork celebrates human love and communication – two themes at the heart of his contribution to the art of the twentieth century.

The Artist loved both literature and visual art, studying at Liverpool Art Institute from 1957-1960.  He penned and illustrated three books: In His Own Write, A Spaniard in the Works, and Skywriting by Word of Mouth. 

As early as 1969, John began moving toward a return to visual art and continued to draw throughout his life.  He was primarily interested in drawing and favored the creative loose sketch, working in pen and ink.  Lennon’s primary medium was line drawing, in either pen, pencil, or Japanese sumi ink.  He not only penned, but also sketched the drawings that became illustrations for his three bestselling books.

The show is FREE and open to the public with all artwork available for acquisition.  For more information, call 609-368-7777 or visit www.oceangalleries.com