While a typical format for this commentary on Walsh’s exhibition would appropriately focus on the artist and, above all, the art—this one is also deeply personal. In 1980, at the start of Golden Artist Colors I had my first visit to Larry Poons’ studio. His partner, Paula Poons (née DeLuccia), graciously handed me a handwritten list of sixteen artists she felt I needed to meet. It was more than a list—it was a quiet invitation into what would be for me, the most vibrant, expansive and creative world that I could have ever imagined.
Among the first names were James Walsh and his partner, Annie Walsh (née Igelsrud). At the time, I couldn’t have known how formative those introductions would be. Since that moment, more than four decades have passed, and my admiration for Jim and Annie has only deepened. I’ve had the privilege to be a colleague of Jim’s, not from a distance, but from within the folds of work and friendship. His generosity, insight, dry humor, and fierce commitment to a creative life have made an indelible mark on me.
So, while this essay is indeed about Jim’s work—its intricacies, its tensions, and its uncompromising presence—it is also about something harder to name: the longevity of artistic integrity and the value of his uniquely sustained curiosity. What I’ve learned from Jim has come not in formal critiques or studio walkthroughs, but in conversations over meals, Diet Pepsi (Annie’s), walks, trips, work together, moments of craziness and a good deal of laughter (Jim doesn’t ever belly laugh … I do).
In many ways, his work mirrors the man—disciplined, deeply intelligent and independently radical. What follows is not a traditional review, nor even a retrospective. It is, instead, a reflection: on the work, on the artist, and on the enduring value of a life committed to thoughtful making.
To celebrate the 45th anniversary of Golden Artist Colors, I suggested to Jim that we hold a show of his work. As he has been the Director of the Sam & Adele Golden Gallery (SAGG) for over 25 years, Jim was more than a bit hesitant. To this he posed a stipulation; that I curate the show and that I write the essay. I was more than a bit concerned. Jim is an incredible writer and has contributed his writing to significant artist catalogues and books. But I also knew this was an especially important request I needed to honor. This offered some appropriate distance for Jim—and for me, a seriously daunting yet exciting challenge and a special way to celebrate the Company’s 45th anniversary.