(48 × 30 × 2″, 2025, mixed media collage on canvas) – Inspired by an ancient Pompeii fresco of a lyre player, this piece explores themes of homecoming and artistic legacy. The title references Weezer’s 2014 instrumental “Return to Ithaka,” which itself includes passages from Homer’s Odyssey in its liner notes. The work layers graphite, acrylic, oil, spray paint, tissue, cheesecloth, found papers, and grocery ads to create an archaeological quality – as if excavating fragments of ancient culture through contemporary materials.
GJ Gillespie is a collage artist living in a 1928 farmhouse overlooking Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island, WA. A prolific artist with 23 awards to his name, his work has been exhibited in 71 shows and appeared in more than 200 publications. Beyond his studio practice, Gillespie channels his passion for art by running Leda Art Supply, a company specializing in premium sketchbooks. Whether conjuring vivid collage compositions or enabling other artists through exceptional tools, Gillespie remains dedicated to the transformative power of art.
