Art work, promotional material

Sponsored by the South Dakota Library Association and South Dakota Humanities Council
study, mock-ups

p. 53

Drawings in this folder were all done using both hands simultaneously

Intuitive

Sketchbook fell on Highway 14 near De Smet and war run over by cars

Study, promotional pieces, Medallions

Landscape of four buffalo running at sunrise/sunset.

Toy Soldier - 89.12.07.01
Flower Lady - 89.11.09.01
Curious Turkey - 89.12.06.02
Bird Man - 89.12.06.01
Cat and Bird in a Conference - 89.12.05.01

Running horse over black stripes and black background.

The James Pollock Papers document the life, art, and contributions of South Dakota artist James Pollock, with a particular focus on his involvement in the U.S. Army's Combat Art Teams (CAT) and his artistic works related to the Vietnam War. The collection encompasses a wide range of materials, including notes, interviews, reports, articles, photographs, and sketches, offering a detailed look at Pollock's creative process, his military experiences, and his artistic evolution both during and after his service. A central component of the collection highlights Pollock's role in the Combat Art Teams, which aimed to capture the realities of war through visual art. His contributions span various phases of the Vietnam conflict and also includes material of other Combat Artist Team military assignments in locations such as Korea, Thailand, Germany, Alaska, and Panama.

The collection features numerous original ink sketches that showcase Pollock's distinctive style and his evolving artistic vision over the years. These works cover a broad range of subjects, from wildlife and landscapes to human figures, frequently drawing inspiration from his South Dakota heritage. In addition to his war-related art, Pollock's work has been exhibited in venues such as the Indianapolis Exhibit and the Robinson Museum in Pierre, South Dakota. Articles and press releases from publications like South Dakota Magazine and Vietnam Magazine document his artistic impact, highlighting the significance of his contributions to both military and civilian audiences.

Correspondence within the collection reveals Pollock's interactions with a diverse group of individuals, including political figures, fellow artists, military personnel, and veterans. These letters provide valuable insight into the professional and cultural networks that supported Pollock's artistic endeavors.

Beyond his military and war-related art, the collection includes Pollock's personal projects, such as his illustrations for Blood on the Killdeer by Dana Close Jennings, as well as his involvement in South Dakota's Centennial and Bicentennial celebrations. His engagement with the public is further reflected in materials related to his participation in art forums for veterans. The collection also documents Pollock's media presence, including his web site, articles, and video content, which showcase his outreach efforts to veterans and the broader public.

Overall, the James Pollock Papers offer a comprehensive portrait of an artist whose work bridges military history, cultural heritage, and personal expression, underscoring the enduring impact of his artistic contributions.

Two geese flying in a storm.

Watercolor painting depicting a storm.

Study, magazine

South Dakota Department of Education and Cultural Affairs

Dakota Survival bison design

Dakota Survival bison design

Dakota Survival bison design

Landscape of a farm at sunrise/sunset.

Landscape of a teepee at sunrise/sunset.

Howling wolf in front of a sun/moon.

Rolled

Plaque

Two deer jumping in the air with the moon in the background.

Yellow bird over red and orange shapes on a blue background. Tera Cotton Duck - DP Acrylic Printing

The Right to Read, South Dakota Department of Public Instruction

The Land They Possessed by Mart Wortht Beneman - South Dakota Centennial Poster Our People reprinted by South Dakota Library Associatioin and South Dakota Humanities Council

South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks