Juju Ishmael

January 2 – February 1, 2025

Opening/First Thursday Art Walk: January 2, 5-8 pm
Artist Talk: January 11, 1-3 pm
Finished Collaborative painting: January 31 & February 1, 11 – 4 pm

Juju’s recent figurative paintings explore the interplay between vulnerability and strength, and are inspired by the shifting socio-political landscape and its ensuing tumult. The figures in these paintings are enveloped by recurring elements of flowing patterns, suggesting a journey through emotional depths.

Throughout the work, composition and content are discovered organically through the painting process, then excavated and refined as the imagery emerges and solidifies. This method, reliant on the foundational layers, fosters an active dialogue with intuitive mark-making.

To further engage with the intuitive process and integrate the community’s input, the show features an interactive painting experience. An 8-foot-long, 4.5-foot-wide paper will be displayed, inviting viewers to contribute their drawings during the opening. This collective input will serve as the foundation for a new painting, blending the diverse expressions of the audience with Ishmael’s artistic response.