Seven intricate oil paintings showcased at Jessica Silverman Gallery depict various scenes such as a bookstore, lesbian bars like the Wild Side West in Bernal Heights, a fully loaded U-Haul truck, and the artist’s own bedroom. These artworks invite careful observation, revealing interconnected details that may go unnoticed at first glance. For instance, the bicycle featured in “U-Haul” from 2023 is the same one ridden by the artist in “Crossing Manhattan Bridge” from 2023-2024. Moreover, a backpack seen in the latter painting also makes an appearance in “My Bedroom” from 2023. Additionally, a Polaroid camera showcased in one painting reappears in “U-Haul.”
This interwoven narrative within the paintings creates a sense of satisfaction akin to a comedic callback. The artist, Ness, shared that her creative process is influenced by comedy, which she often listens to while working in her studio. She views her artistic endeavors as structured yet organic, aiming to engage viewers without being didactic.
Described as funny, warm, and kind, Ness infuses her personality into her paintings, offering unconventional yet insightful portraits. While her works may not feature traditional human portraits, they provide a glimpse into the essence of the depicted characters and spaces they inhabit. The concept of “Portraits of Place” aptly captures the essence of Ness’ artistry, showcasing her personal spaces, activities, and the environments she frequents.
Ness subtly inserts herself into each painting, whether reading on her bed in “My Bedroom,” gazing at the viewer in “Self Portrait with a Cat (after Laserstein)” from 2024, or simply holding a book in “Browsing the Bookmill” from 2023. This shift towards self-portraiture emerged during the pandemic when she turned to herself as a subject due to restrictions on painting others.
Growing up in a visually stimulating environment, Ness credits her architect father and childhood experiences for shaping her storytelling through art. Her formal art education further honed her skills, leading her to explore unconventional narratives and moments often overlooked in traditional portraiture. By infusing humor and depth into her paintings, Ness navigates the complexities of life, blending light-heartedness with profound themes.
Ness’ artworks not only evoke laughter but also delve into deeper emotions and experiences, reflecting the multifaceted nature of existence. The juxtaposition of humor with darker undertones in her art adds layers of complexity and richness to her storytelling. “PORTRAITS OF PLACE” is a testament to Ness’ artistic vision and narrative depth, inviting viewers to explore the intricacies of her world.
PORTRAITS OF PLACE is on display at Jessica Silverman Gallery in SF until April 20.