When Jim LeGrande thinks of his career as a visual artist three words come to mind: Passion, diversity and commitment.
“I cannot think of a time when art was not foremost in my thoughts and integral to my well-being,” LeGrande said through email.
LeGrande thinks art is a pure expression of a philosophy gained through a person’s life experience.
“I am committed to the idea of imbuing awareness in the public psyche that public art is of vital essence to our society,” he said. “Art is the medicinal glue that can help us ponder, investigate, criticize, illuminate and heal, emotionally, historically and socially. Communities large and small can benefit greatly.”
LeGrande graduated from Iola High School in 1977, and has earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the Kansas City Art Institute.
“Naturally, my family was very supportive of my pursuits in art. The first person outside of family that inspired me to continue was Cecilia Orcutt, my high school teacher.”
LeGrande now resides in Sweet Springs, Mo., an hour east of Kansas City. He has exhibited his work in many states from Hawaii to Florida.
His focus has been in portraiture, wildlife, Western and Sci-Fi subject matter. Since 1997 public art has been a large part of his work. Most of his public murals, created in rural Missouri towns have been historical in subject matter.
“My personal evolution as an artist seeks to right the wrongs of our society, at least to illuminate the ills of neglect and evil, socially, politically and environmentally,” LeGrande said. “I believe art in all forms are the conduit to growth for society at large.”
His artwork is currently displayed in the Mary L. Martin Gallery at the Bowlus Fine Arts Center and is available for viewing. There will be an artist’s reception for LeGrande at 6 p.m. on Oct. 25. LeGrande will be present for the reception.
Iola alum brings artwork home
