Challenging the storyteller: “Yogi Not Yogi – The Messenger” exhibit
Who knew that a seemingly innocuous painting titled “Yogi Yogi Road,” found at a garage sale would spark a years-long artistic exploration for visiting artist
Who knew that a seemingly innocuous painting titled “Yogi Yogi Road,” found at a garage sale would spark a years-long artistic exploration for visiting artist David Ruhlman, whose latest exhibition is now on display at CSB+SJU.
Ruhlman’s exhibition, titled “Yogi Not Yogi—The Messenger,” is now on display at the Alice R. Rogers and Target Galleries. The exhibition, which examines the intersections of belief, myth and symbolism, will be celebrated on Thursday with a public reception from 5-7 p.m. and an artist talk at 6 p.m.
Ruhlman’s work is fueled by the dual nature of the term “Yogi.” On one hand it represents the spiritual seeker in pursuit of enlightenment. On the other it conjures images of the mischievous cartoon character Yogi Bear. This contrast, he says, mirrors society’s struggle to separate truth from deception.
“I see this as a reflection of where we are today. We are caught between our search for truth and the trickster forces of misinformation.” Ruhlman said.
His painting blends religious iconography with pop culture references, depicting Yogi Bear in religious scenes such as Adam and Eve or Abraham and Issac. The intent is to challenge audiences to rethink the myths they take for granted. “What happens when we place a pop culture figure into these sacred narratives? Does it change the way we view them?” Ruhlman said.
While “Yogi Not Yogi” interrogates belief systems, “The Messenger” is a personal meditation on grief and the afterlife. Following the passing of his mother, Ruhlman turned to pop culture imagery such as Casper the Friendly Ghost to process loss and explore ideas of transcendence.
“Theres something comforting about this character,” Ruhlman said. “Casper is the spirit who lingers, a presence that is always there but just out of reach. That felt very real to me in my own experience of grief.”
His approach encourages viewers to find unexpected meaning in what is often dismisses as trivial.
“I want people to look at cartoon, pulp fiction novels and everyday symbols and see what they say about who we are.” He said.
Despite tackling profound themes, Ruhlman’s work is laced with humor. He draws inspiration from artist Jean Dubuffet who believed that art should “make you laugh a little, scare you a little—anything but bore you.”
Looking ahead, Ruhlman remains committed to exploring myth, magic and religion. His next project will focus on these themes, carrying on his playful yet insightful approach to storytelling and belief.
For those intrigued by the intersection of pop culture and existential questions, Ruhlman’s exhibition offers an immersive experience. “Yogi not Yogi—The Messenger” challenges viewers to reconsider the relationship with belief, storytelling and the cultural artifacts that shape the understanding of the world.
