Jim Koerner is a Baltimore native currently part of the diverse team helping to grow Gallery 788 as its exhibition coordinator. Jim also is an MFA candidate for painting at Towson University, Art Handler for the TU galleries, Art Installer, and Art Appreciation instructor at CCBC. Previously, he managed Utrecht Art Supply.
Name: Jim Koerner
Age: 39
Occupation: Depends on the day
Baltimore Neighborhood: Charles Village
Obsessive Collections: Books, the more pictures the better.
Currently Reading: Glittering Images by Camille Paglia and Rodin on Art and Artists by August Rodin
Coolest Place You’ve Ever Been: A week of desert camping in Joshua Tree, CA (really sorry to the guy I had to sit next to on the plane ride back)
Hobbies or Leisure Activities: Climbing indoors and out
Favorite Food to Eat at Home: Pretzels (lots of pretzels), but mostly Utz Extra Dark Specials
Favorite Food to Eat Out: Late night pancakes and wine at the Nautilus Dinner
Favorite Beverage of Choice: Currently Madeira at 13.5
Political Leanings: Sensibility
Favorite Baltimore spot to hang out: The BMA or Walters. I have always felt most at home in a museum. Seeing and immediately understanding Duchamp-Villon’s “The Great Horse” at the BMA as a kid ignited my love and connection to art.
Pets: Lucky enough to live a house with four great dogs. Julia, Bella, Thor, and Diesel (the most awesome, loving, psychologically complex dog I have ever meet)
Favorite Artist, Living or Dead: It’s a toolbox. I like who I need to get me through whatever I am working on.
Movie that Sums Up the Current State of Your Life: “500 Days of Summer” hit a little too close to home
Favorite Bad Habit: Thinking too much
Favorite Quote: “That is what is great about painting-you can see the hesitation and uncertainty. Painting is a performative record of not knowing where you are going.” – Amy Sillman
Jim Koerner. The Swamp Walkers, 2013, Acrylic on canvas, 38”x44”