Gospel music is heavily rooted in the African-American community and artist Michele Wood has used the inspiration of gospel and created art that reflects the spirit and interpretation of gospel music.
Wood’s “I See the Rhythm of Gospel” will be on display at the Indiana History Center, 450 W. Ohio St., now through Dec. 30 in the Lanham Gallery.
The Indiana History Center said that this collection of 19 colorful and dramatic paintings highlights the history and worship experience of African-American gospel music and “seeks to take viewers on a musical journey through time to see, feel and hear the rhythms of this distinctive and powerful sound.”
These paintings are also illustrations to Wood’s book also titled I See the Rhythm of Gospel.
Abby Wolf, assistant, exhibit research development and design at the Indiana Historical Society said that this exhibit is a very vibrant, interesting and strong and continues the center’s goal of providing viewers a balanced and extraordinary view into the lives of Hoosiers.
“Her visual interpretations of music is stunning and anybody can relate to that. Here depictions of church and faith is universal It’s an emotive experience,” added Wolf. “She covers gospel and choirs but she also has several pieces that cover hip-hop and jazz. People will understand her appreciation of music.”
The Recorder spoke with Wood, a native of Indianapolis currently living in Atlanta, to discuss her love of art, award winning books and her new exhibit.
Recorder: When did you begin painting?
Michele Wood: I’ve been painting all my life. Painting is therapeutic, but for me, it’s a spiritual connection. It’s an evolvement. It’s something I can’t live without. My mother is an artist and we always talk about how you may want to leave art, but art never wants to leave you. It haunts you. No matter where you are, you think about creation or drawing or you may get an idea. (Laughs) I call my art my husband because it’s something I’m committed to long term.
When I was in college at American Intercontinental University, I decided to go into painting as opposed to advertising. I do have a B.A. in commercial art. I decided this is what I wanted to do. I may take jobs here and there, but I’m a full time, round the clock artist.
Recorder: How would you describe your paintings?
They’re heartfelt and soulful. There’s a lot of movement and meaning hidden within each painting.
Recorder: Tell me about the development of “I See the Rhythm of Gospel”?
In Indianapolis I worked at a Christian bookstore in the music section. I used to sell different CDs and DVDs. One particular DVD was call “Hallelujah Praise” by CeCe Winans. I loved the DVD and how the creator laid out the tracks. Each song had a rhythm to it that led to more worship and deeper praise. It’s not about Winans’ songs or what other musicians do that inspired the painting, but about the spirit of that song, what she conveyed and how her spirit came through.
Recorder: How were you able to have your paintings be featured in books?
Normally an artist will receive a completed manuscript and then the artwork follows. For I See the Rhythm of Gospel, the writer, Toyomi Igus, was inspired by my paintings. She also did some historical research. After we completed the book, we decided to do a CD that went through changes and phases, but when we narrowed down the song, it was “Hallelujah Praise” by CeCe Winans. I realized I was on the right track.
I’ve worked with Toyomi before on my first book, Going Back Home: An Artist Returns to the South. She took my writings, travels to the South and discussions with my grandmother and helped create the book. Going Back Home won the American Book Award and I See the Rhythm won the Corretta Scott King Book Award. With her help, she’s brought my paintings to life.
Recorder: What can people expect from the “I See the Rhythm” exhibit at the Indiana History Center?
They can expect the paintings telling a bit of history during certain time periods. When you go through the book, I wanted you to be within that decade, that you come away with a bit of history. (The paintings reflect) African spirituals, Thomas Dorsey in the 1930s, women in the 1950s to civil rights and other eras. You’re going to be on a journey once you get there. I’m also having a lecture at the History Center on Dec. 20 where gospel singer Vivica Turrentine will be singing songs from different time periods such as “Wade in the Water.”
Recorder: How do you feel about your paintings being displayed in your hometown?
I’m humbled. The Indiana Historical Society has been such a fan of my work that they’ve supported me. It’s really not words that can explain how I feel.
For more information, call (317) 232-1882 or visit www.indianahistory.org; or visit www.michelewood.com.
