April 2008 artist: Jamie Kotewa

Noir Art Emporium presents paintings and drawings by Jamie Kotewa.



From the artist:

"The concept of identity is the source of inspiration for a lot of my work. Looking at rural structures in the landscape, I was struck by the history built into these places and how much one's identity could be constructed around the presence of that environment. People who work with the land, such as farmers, have an obvious connection to the countryside. Commuters who drive by it everyday also have a connection, as does anyone who has had an experience within the landscape. Visual landmarks contribute as we orient ourselves to them -- I live across from the grove of trees on the left side of the road. Rural structures and other elements that find their way into my drawings often times have multiple meanings related to their function that mirror human actions. Barns and silos store and protect, while fences can protect by keeping things in or out. And all three of those can break down with time. Fields create rhythms and patterns that are familiar with the passing of each season. This adds to the collective identity of the Midwest.

"I am also interested in the relationship between identity and role-playing. The image of the apron represents the act of role-playing -- it can be put on and taken oft worn for any length or time. Aprons symbolize many things, from the role of the woman, protection, fashion and social status, to physical labor. Drawings with aprons usually are perforated, much like paper doll books, to signify the perceived choices within the role being played.

"For now, it all comes back to identity and how we identify ourselves. Some of my favorite artist influences have been Philip Pearlstein and realism, William Kentridge and process drawing, Alice Maher and her Irish dancers, and Dorthea lange and her documentation of human life."

Ms. Kotewa will be at the opening reception, 5-9 p.m. Friday, April 4, to talk about her work and answer questions.