Art & Life with Jesse Howard

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jesse Howard.

Jesse, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
Since the 1980s, my work has been about socially-concerned issues, focusing on the plight of the homeless and disenfranchised, particularly African Americans, in urban environments. As an African American, I have experienced profiling and discrimination. I know firsthand the lack of sensitivity that the African American community is viewed upon and often dismissed. My work embodies what is in me and how I feel, without limitations of my surrounding.

Can you give our readers some background on your art?
My body of work portrays the interpretation of social issues, racial stereotypes and the effect local and federal policies have on a segment of the population, particular the African American male.

The figures in my drawings are typically distorted to reflect the pressure and anxiety individuals feel inside, and the perceptions and expectations imposed upon them by society. Sometimes these images are distorted and made to appear larger than life, made of charcoal and wash to capture the most pressing issues people face in their everyday lives. My art is always evolving. I make an effort to reflect in the moment, time and space that I’m in. Often I return to my old neighborhood to record images of the people in the inner city and walk the downtown streets of Chicago for inspiration.

Through my art I want people to see the strength and character of the disenfranchised, and not pass judgement on them because they are living on the fringes of society.

In your view, what is the biggest issue artists have to deal with?
I see the biggest problem for artist today is a lack of exposure and opportunity to exhibit their work.

One should develop a strategy with realistic goals and objectives. Make a point to meet curators doing receptions to develop contacts for solo or group exhibitions.

What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
I will be a part of a group show curated by Greg Mejia and Kathryn Gauthier at the Bridgeport Art Center 1200 w 35th St. September 21st 7 pm – 10 pm / October 19th

Plus, I will exhibit at North Eastern Illinois University 5500 N Saint Louis Ave – Gallery Talk October 11th at 4:15 pm in the Gallery – The Reception October 19th 6-8pm

Website: jessehowardstudio.com
email: jessehowardstudio@gmail.cim

Contact Info:

• Website: jessehowardstudio.com
• Phone: 708-878-7261
• Instagram: stormbeforethecrisis
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/jesse.howard.18

Image Credit:
Photo and picture by Jesse Howard

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