Sarkis

the long version

Sarkis is a study of the life and work of Sarkis Sarkisian, an artist, teacher, and leader of Detroit's artistic community for nearly fifty years. It is through the division of the book into three categories - figure painting, still life, and landscape - that the authors provide a framework for understanding Sarkis' work and for following changes in his style and technique. Gordon and Elizabeth Orear examine the recurring themes and motifs in his paintings for what they reveal of his thought, method, philosophy, and of the intimate relation of his art to his life. They discuss his boyhood in Asia Minor and his Greek and Armenian heritage, from which his art drew inspiration and meaning, and the art community of Detroit, in which his art found a place.