Kigogo, 2008
oil on belgian linen
108 x 96 in
(274.32h x 243.84w cm)
Private Commission
“When we were building our new house, we knew we wanted a spectacular piece of art for the centerpiece wall in our living room. After looking at the work of dozens of artists, we decided that John had to be the one to create something for us–if he was available to take on the job. John was absolutely great. He traveled to our house in Florida where we spent at least an hour in the unfinished living room, looking at the wall, envisioning possibilities and discussing the details of the painting that we hoped would come to be. Having no artistic skills myself, but having majored in philosophy of art in college, I had all kinds of ideas of what the painting should communicate. John listened to my suggestions and returned to Montana to begin work on the massive painting.
Following the artistic process was exciting. John would periodically send me sketches of the proposed work, and later, photographs of the painting as it progressed. He had said that I could suggest changes, but I never made a single one. We were thrilled with every stage of the process and anticipated the arrival of the next image.
The result was perfect. John’s painting is without a doubt the featured characteristic of the house. In an otherwise beautiful home, full of quality artwork and with many points of interest, John’s painting is the one that everyone talks about. It is the piece that captivates. The painting is even more special to us because we were allowed to play a small role in its creation. We will always cherish this work of art.”
- Kevin A. Malone, Partner of Krupnick Law Firm
“Kigogo makes people challenge their preconceived ideas about wildlife art and contemporary city design, as well as about how much space can and cannot be taken by the art scene presented. To me, his frame is an opening in the wall into real space, his space, and he takes me all into his moment, his grass, and his kingdom.”
– Jeannette Malone