Newburyport Art presents a Featured Artist solo exhibition — A Constant Reminder — by indigenous artist Makerjake.
Infused with an exciting palette of vibrant colors and inspired by indigenous patterns and contemporary street art grit, my exhibition unravels the multi-faceted tapestry of identity and existence. A convergence of my Native American heritage and typical middle-class upbringing, my art forms a bold narrative of self-discovery. Each canvas is a testament to the idea that our identities are a vibrant mosaic, crafted from the kaleidoscope of experiences, moments, and influences we gather. Bold brushstrokes interlace with flat color fields, inviting viewers into a world where vibrant pigments and intricate patterns reflect the myriad influences that shape us. Guided by these juxtaposed narratives, my art beckons all to peel away layers, reigniting the thrill of unearthing one's essence and fostering connections within ourselves and the contemporary human story.
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Makerjake, a pseudonym for artist and educator Jake Ginga, is well known in Massachusetts for his unique approach to portraiture and the seamless integration of indigenous iconography and contemporary design elements. Don Wilkinson wrote, "All are bold influences that shouldn't work with the original source material. But it does. There's a saying: Go bold or go home. Makerjake does both".
Jake is an only child, and his mother is the youngest in a large indigenous family. Jake had art all around him growing up, his mother is a painter, and his uncles are all woodworkers, silversmiths, bead workers, and experts of various indigenous crafts. While he didn't get into art until later in high school, he chose to pursue it in college, earning a BFA in Art Education from The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and a Masters in Education from Northeastern University in Boston, MA.
Come meet Jake at a public talk and reception on Saturday, September 30th from 3-5pm! Free and open to the public with light refreshments provided!
