Hoosiers by Jim Klein
“Or they laughed at Indiana, because the people there proudly call themselves Hoosiers even though they have no idea what Hoosier means. Some historians believe it comes from the Shawnee expression “ho’o-sa’ars,” or “people who cannot explain their nickname.”
― Dave Barry, American author and humorist
Join us on a quick cut edition of “Behind the Canvas” as we dive into Hoosiers and discover how Jim Klein finds inspiration in the everyday.
Can you walk us through the creative process behind your piece Hoosiers?
Jim: I worked on this piece under my famous yellow umbrella (as discussed in this blog) outside the Art Factory. Hoosiers started as that rich dark wash you see in the background of the painting (for the non-artists, a wash is the process of diluting paint to create layers of color and texture). I like to take my time with it, observing the wash for ages, watching for what mysteries show themselves from the depths. After I was happy with the colors and paints, I started outlining and forming shapes with the darker brush strokes.
What’s the story behind the title?
Jim: “Hoosiers” is one of those words that always piqued my curiosity. Every time I meet someone from Indiana, I can’t help but ask, “What’s a Hoosiers?”
And you know what? Nobody has a clear answer. But that’s what I love about it.
This painting has that same elusive quality, that Hoosier charm. It’s got me wondering, “what’s the story here?” If you’re ever wondering what a Hoosier is, this painting is it.
Watch Jim Klein paint Hoosiers below!
Hoosiers is available for purchase! Click here to view.