Surrounding the Gabbarrón exhibit and the upper level of the courtyard are a set of 33 assemblages documenting NFL football by the artist Jim Ridlon. Previously housed in the NFL Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, this series was donated to ASAMA by Ridlon. Ridlon's premier assemblage work, created in 1986, commemorates the 25th anniversary of "ABC's Wide World of Sports." Response to this work earned Ridlon a spot in the Smithsonian Institution.
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Assemblages: Generally, artists who create these works "assemble" many different kinds of materials. The result is considered both a painting and a sculpture. Artists may choose recycled materials, industrial products and even debris to create their works. They may choose objects that relay a certain message or idea. Notice that Ridlon chooses objects that work with his titles to create humorous overtones and/or puns. |
"Goal Line Stand"
One of the most intense and important moments in a football game is the goal line stand. This occurs when the defense is backed up against their own goal line, trying to stop an offense that is on the verge of scoring. Great consequence looms for a defense that is not strong. Thus you see Ridlon's use of bricks to emulate a "wall." There are also the dinosaurs representing the gigantic physique of the players and the primal behavior engaged in this struggle.
"The Metamorphosis of the Great Ones"
In football, maybe more than any other major sport, there is the distinction and extreme difference heralded between good players and the great players. Notice the "stockpen" of players that represents those who have the capability to become great, but must receive the opportunity to earn their place. The lower left corner of the image shows the players in the various stages of heir progression. When their metamorphasis is complete, angle figures carry them to the "atropolis." Curator's note: In ancient Greece the atropolis referred to a city's highest point.
View a slide show of Ridlon's assemblages 
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Jim Ridlon: The son of a lobsterman, Ridlon grew up in Nyack, New York. His struggles with dyslexia led him to focus inwardly and turn to art as a release. In high school, his artistic ability flourished under the direction of an excellent art teacher. Earning an athletic scholarship to Syracuse University allowed him to pursue his study of art. From college, he went to play in the NFL, serving as one of the first tough-as-nails defensive backs in the 1950's and 60's with the San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys. He earned all NFL honors as defensive back in 1964. At the peak of his career, however, Ridlon left the gridiron to return to Syracuse and pursue his true calling — art. |
