John Donovan is an assistant professor in the Art Department at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU). He earned a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from Loyola University in 1994 and Fine Arts degrees from Stephen F. Austin State University in 1996 and 1997.

Clay has remained John’s material of choice for most of his artistic career. His work explores the contradictions he finds in his life and surroundings, often using childhood toys and pre-Columbian figures as metaphors for contemporary cultural concerns. John’s art has been exhibited nationally and internationally, and is represented by LeMieux Galleries in New Orleans and Zeitgeist Art Gallery in Nashville.

Artist Statement

“I am fascinated by cultural history and how clay has contributed to creating and recording that history. By blending ancient and contemporary themes, I call attention to the role art once played in human history, and how that role has changed in our contemporary culture. I also explore contradictions I find in our world, things that do not make sense to me, often frightening things. Humor is often put to work in my art. Creating tension between the initially playful appearance of the form and the grim subterranean theme is important to me.”

Shown Right: Colossal Cat Head, 22" x 34 " x 20," terra cotta.

Arts at the Airport receives funding for the visual arts from the Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA) and the Tennessee Arts Commission (TAC). The Flying Solo Exhibition Series is funded under an agreement with the TAC. For more information about Arts at the Airport, please call (615) 275-1614.