A Closer Look at Oshun Williams
Jimmy Carr, 2026 | Acrylic and mixed media, chenille patches, embroidered patches, oil pastels, newspaper on canvas, 48 × 72 inches
Look at one of Oshun Williams paintings in the exhibition Jimmy's Blueprint and initially you will see a story of family, community and everyday life. But something I've noticed spending time in the gallery over the last week, is that the closer you get to these pieces the more you are rewarded with the details.
Detail of Jimmy Carr
While there is nothing like seeing the work in person, I've included some detail photographs (taken by the talented CJ Benninger) to close the distance and invite you into another layer of the exhibition.
Detail of Jimmy Carr
Many of the details Oshun incorporates into his paintings aren't actually painted, but physically attached to the canvas. Before becoming part of the work they existed in the world and held their own history by being carried on clothing, uniforms, and personal belongings.
Detail of Jimmy Carr
The beauty of these materials is that they have turned into something that stays with you. The logo on a favorite T-shirt, the texture of a brick house, flowers brought to mark an occasion.
The Basket, 2025 | Acrylic and mixed media, chenille patches, embroidered patches, oil pastels, newspaper on canvas, 48 × 72 inches
Oshun places little things that anchor us to a place in time in the same way a song or a smell will transport you.
Detail of The Basket
The longer I spend with this work, the more my attention is rewarded. Each detail connects one piece to the next, creating a visual language that unfolds over time.
Detail of The Basket
By attaching these elements into his paintings the memories aren’t just depicted, they’re actually present.
Under the Carport, 2026 | Acrylic and mixed media, chenille patches, embroidered patches, oil pastels, newspaper on canvas, 48 × 72 inches
Detail of Under the Carport
Detail of Under the Carport
If you have a chance, come see it for yourself.
The exhibition is on view through July 25th.
205 E. 9 Mile Road, Ferndale
We will be hosting an artist talk with Oshun on
Thursday, July 23rd from 6 - 8 PM.
I hope to see you there!
