Yellena James | ARISE
Stephanie Chefas Projects
March 2, 2018, through March 31, 2018
Opening reception: Friday, March 2, 2018, from 7—10 PM
EXHIBITION INFORMATION
On March 2nd, Stephanie Chefas Projects will proudly present ARISE, a new series of paintings by Portland-based artist Yellena James. James is well known for her colorful and instantly recognizable organic landscapes - an abstracted semblance of coral reefs, tangled seaweed, and anemones. Through a combination of pen, acrylic, gouache, and ink, James playfully dances with various textures and forges a style completely her own.
ARISE continues upon James' exploration of brightly colored, biomorphic shapes. Each panel explodes with kaleidoscopic flora and offers an expansive glimpse into the subaqueous ecosystem. Delicate patterns are carefully added alongside other equally intricate layers, thereby retaining the imperative balance. By reimagining the at once random and mathematically agreeable harmony that actually exists in nature, James brings a completely fantastical world to life.
ARTIST STATEMENT
"In my latest collection of work, I continue to explore the alluring imaginary life forms and terrains of my own invention," states James. "Balancing a bright and colorful palette with rich backgrounds, I trace the origins of these luminescent forms back to the depths from which they emerge and bring them vividly to life. The larger pieces have an inviting and immersive quality to them, while the round panels compliment the delicate organic forms within the ethereal landscape."