Images from left: Jill McLennan: “Danger Scout” (2013) 24″ x 16″ wax encaustic on board (photo by artist); Charlie Milgrim “Curl Field” (2013) 4 ft. x 5 ft. (variable) tar paper acrylic paint (photo by artist).
Jill McLennan‘s work surrounds issues of urban daily life, observations of construction and dilapidation adorned with graffiti, and the tension between humans and their attempts to control wild nature. As an artist, she trespasses for the sake of observation, of getting a better angle, an inside view on the experiences of the city. Her observations capture a dialogue that echoes the tensions of the city. Trespassing implicates border,s gate,s and fences– places and opportunities blocked for some, while open to others. Through her exhibition, McLennan is exposing these blockades and recognizing this struggle in her surroundings.
McLennan holds a graduate degree in Art Eduction from the School of Art Institute of Chicago and has been working as an artist and an educator in the Bay Area for many years. She is a recipient of the Alameda County Arts Leadership Award 2013. In 2012 she launched JMAC (Jill McLennan Arts and Community) a mural business providing opportunities for youth and artists to work together to beautify their community. She is a teaching artist at Sequoia School, MOCHA, and the DeYoung Museum. She strives to incorporate creativity and awareness into all aspects of daily life through painting and teaching.
SPECIAL EVENTS:
Artist Talk and Reception: Saturday, October 5, 4-6pm
Oakland Art Murmur First Fridays: Oct 4 & Nov 1, 6-9pm
Third Thursday: Oct 17, 6-8pm