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I am honored to join you this evening at the opening of Tom Christopher’s new exhibit, “Interpreting Times Square.” I feel very fortunate to have had the chance to meet Tom yesterday, and to enjoy a sneak preview of this fantastic new exhibit. We are all very privileged to view Tom Christopher’s interpretations of that dynamic and cosmopolitan American city, New York, here in the equally dynamic and cosmopolitan city of Frankfurt.
We really have two things to celebrate this evening. First, we are here to enjoy and appreciate the incredible talent of Tom Christopher. We all owe Barbara von Stechow a huge thank you for bringing Tom, and his work, to Frankfurt. And second, we have the opportunity to bring Germans and Americans together in our mutual appreciation for the arts. For that as well, we owe Barbara a debt of gratitude. Barbara, thank you!
Walking around the gallery, it is easy to see the energy, vibrancy, and the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple.
New York City, the most densely populated city in America, is rich with culture. New York is famous for its ethnic and cultural diversity, its independent art scene, and its world-class museums, galleries, and performance venues. I understand why Tom Christopher uses this world-renowned city as his muse. Another famous gentleman named Tom, the writer Tom Wolfe, once said of New York that “Culture just seems to be in the air, like part of the weather.”
Tom told me last night about his early days as a courtroom artist, and how he had just a moment or two to sketch out the picture that would illustrate the drama unfolding in the courtroom.
With the same sense of urgency, Tom captures the daring and energy of New Yorkers in his cyclist and taxi scenes. In contrast, his paintings of the skyline sunset suspend the city’s animation for a moment and highlight its tranquility at dusk. With his art, Tom Christopher narrates the colorful tales of one of America’s greatest cities.
Tonight we have a truly unique opportunity to share America’s distinct urban culture with our friends across the Atlantic, and what better place to do that than here in “Mainhattan?”
Art, good art, challenges our perceptions of reality. It forces us to think and rethink. In terms of diplomacy, art can be used as a vehicle to drive discussions about differing views and shared values. I am sure that Tom Christopher’s exhibit will lead to many great exchanges between American and German visitors to the gallery here, and will help us to have a better understanding both of American and European culture. Indeed, last night and this evening, it has already done so.
Please join me in expressing appreciation to Tom Christopher and Barbara von Stechow, who made this exhibit possible. Thank you.
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