Jennifer Burkhead of Lawrence, Kansas, joins us as Artist-in-Resident April 2nd-14th. Inspired by satellite photographs, Jennifer embarked on a journey of creativity, painting with acrylics on wood panels and interpreting the images in her distinctive style. While her pieces bear a resemblance to the satellite images, they also exhibit characteristics of non-figurative abstract art.
Initially drawn to the natural beauty depicted in the satellite photos—such as water, grasses, and tree canopies—Jennifer’s exploration led her to observe human interventions like roads, highways, and buildings. She found that incorporating these elements expanded the palette of colors she used and introduced geometric and symmetrical constructions, highlighting the contrast between nature’s beauty and the negative impact of human activity, such as mining and development. Jennifer’s artwork is open to interpretation, aiming to spark conversations and discussions among viewers.
Jennifer joins Smoky Valley Arts & Folklife Center as guest instructor for Saturday Morning Makers for children aged 6-9. Participants will explore the relationship between shapes in nature and how we can interpret those shapes in a creative way. Participants will work with organic shapes and unique color palettes to generate their own mixed-media creations inspired by satellite imagery/photography. To sign up your child visit redbarnstudio.org/air-workshops/.
Join us for a reception for Jennifer Friday, April 5th, 2024 from 5-7 at the Red Barn Studio .