Oysterman Wins!

Thomas Burger’s first place piece, "Oysterman" was deeply rooted in New Orleans history. He paints characters, landscapes and historic Louisiana landmarks on old copper window screens that once graced homes in some of our historic neighborhoods. The reclaimed screens, once turned into Burger’s signature artwork, save a bit of New Orleans architectural history while at the same time depicting aspects of that same New Orleans history. "Oysterman" was a masterful depiction of a fisherman complete with a three dimensional screen face and a bucket of oysters. The piece brought many smiles to the many art patrons who admired it. Burger’s sense of history, his love of Louisiana life, and the endearing characters he paints make him a favorite at the Annual Poydras Home Art Show.

New Ambrotype (image on glass)

Found and won this ambrotype at auction (online) and inspired to create my own version of Patrioticman. Once I am done with 3-D screen portrait I will post an image of finished piece. Applied for two artshows out of state and waiting to hear what happens next. Applying for shows is easy but, getting accepted into them is the hardiest part. There are the usual expenses of booth fees and planning a spending budget for the trips. This will be my first out of state art showing and feel positive about showing my work. I will need to create over thirty works of art and figure out displays for each show. Very excited and hopeful.

Ambrotypes

Some people ask where do I find inspiration for my 3-D screen portraits? Most of my ideas come from the old photos and ambrotypes I collect. Some photos are forgotten persons of the past but, with my creative talent they are brought back from the past. Working with screen is not the easiest material to work with when sculpting figures. I do use my own face as a form but, sometimes I ask people to pose for some of my portraits. Oysterman was a combination of ambrotype, me and my partner Jerry. The piece conveys a sense of hope for our Oyster farmers and shrimpers. He stands with his bucket of half oysters and wearing his best suit to show he is a working class gentleman. I will be creating a series of 3-D screen portraits conveying hope and promise for the people that work the hardest in our Louisiana seafood industry. They have battled the worst of serveral storms and remain confident and a symbol of the American dream.