1954 - 1956
Clytie (1954) was one of John Chamberlain’s early steel works. Chamberlain considered it one of his first successful sculptures.
1954
As part of the "Momentum: Midcontinental Exhibition" held at the Art Institute of Design in Chicago, two welded steel sculptures by Chamberlain are featured- selected by notable art world figures painter Robert Motherwell, New York gallerist Betty Parsons, and James Johnson Sweeney, director of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York.
1955
During the summer of 1955, Chamberlain embarks on a journey to Black Mountain College, an innovative art school located in North Carolina. It is during this time that he finds inspiration in the realm of poetry. Chamberlain's artistic direction is notably shaped by poet Erndest Fenollosa, whose influence informs his distinctive approach to language. This influence is manifested in Chamberlain's fascination with the visual aspects of written language, often disregarding their literal meanings. This inclination is evident in the titles of his artworks.
Elaine and John Chamberlain on their wedding night, New York, August 1956
1956
Chamberlain relocates to New York City along with Elaine Grulkowski. They joyfully welcome their first son, Angus Orion Chamberlain, on June 21st- subsequently in August, Elaine and Chamberlain marry. In order to support his growing family, Chamberlain occasionally works as a hairdresser in Forest Hills, Queens.
From September 13th to October 3rd, 1956, the Wells Street Gallery in Chicago hosts Chamberlain's inaugural solo exhibition- In the winter of the same year, Chamberlain establishes a studio within a former tobacco factory located in lower Manhattan. Reflecting on this period, he recollects, "I sat there and created drawings with paint on paper, and then frequented the bar."
Shortly thereafter, Chamberlain relocates his family to Rockland County, New York, where he establishes a studio within an old barn. He concurrently maintains work as a hairdresser at Jerry’s Beauty Shop- his last job before he attains the ability to sustain a living as an artist.