Jessica Weybright

Artist Statement

There is a great freedom in creating abstract art. One can explore ideas with space, color and line without the pressure of making recognizable objects, yet, in the finished piece it is quite possible for each individual viewer to “see” something quite different. It is our tendency to look for identifiable shapes, or suggestions of shapes within abstract work.

Through the use of multiple color layers, ghost prints and interchangeable etching plates, I’ve explored many opposing ideas. Though opposites, these ideas support each other while allowing the other to exist.

On some pieces, I’ve started with a bold color, blocking out certain areas to create a clear delineation between positive and negative areas. Then, through subsequent layering, I’ve added softer, lighter tones and lines that not only contrast with the qualities of the earlier lines, but also begin to muddle the distinction between what is positive and what is negative space.

Many layers of soft color and thin lines create a space that is superficially calming, but on closer examination reveals motion and chaos. Strong lines create a framework that grounds looser brushstrokes, but also provides for a freedom to move and grow. The eye is held for a moment then released. Repetition of elements, such as white lines, circles, certain colors as well as line and brushstroke throughout the work create a sense of rhythm and movement.

In this way, a world is created in which each viewer is able, through slow exploration and playful contemplation, to discover for themselves different layers of meaning. 

Biography

Date and Place of Birth: 1975, Niles, Michigan

Education: BA, Art, Kalamazoo College, Kalamazoo, MI. 1998

Solo exhibitions:
2008: “Lyric Elements”, solo exhibition, New Grounds Gallery, Albuquerque, NM
2006: “Structure Breach”, solo exhibition, New Grounds Gallery, Albuquerque, NM
1997: “Scapes”, Kalamazoo College

Group Exhibitions:

2008: "Made in New Mexico," Wolverhampton College, Wolverhampton,U.K.

         “Made in New Mexico”, Proyecto Ace, Buenos Aires, Argentina

2007: “New Works,” Shy Rabbit Contemporary Arts, Pagosa Springs, CO

2005: "Three Suites," New Grounds Gallery

Major Collections:
Albuquerque Museum
Museo de la Estampa, Mexico City
University of Denver, Denver, CO
Mount Mercy College, Cedar Rapids, IA
Kalamazoo College, Kalamazoo, MI
UNM Law School, Albuquerque, NM
UNM Hospital, Albuquerque, NM
Loyola College, Baltimore, MD
University of Texas at Austin
Fayetteville State University, NC

Wolverhampton College, Wolverhampton, U.K.

Proyecto Ace, Buenos Aires, Argentina