Compére Collective Presents: Alexandra Jamieson, Our Stories: Patterns + What We Inherit

Starting September 17, artist Alexandra Jamieson will be presenting her show, “Our Stories: Patterns + What We Inherit.”

Jamieson creates stunning and meaningful pieces that represent all parts of life — from the beautiful all the way down to the broken. She is a member of several Brooklyn art scenes as well, with her art show hosting, book writing, painting, and more. We spoke with her about her art & inspiration, so you can learn more about the artist! Make sure you stop by September 17-September 30 to see the show!

How has being a resident in NYC affected or contributed to your art?

In the last 23 years, I’ve been a part of several music, film, fashion, publishing, and visual arts communities in NYC. Many of my friends straddle multiple creative fields at once, whether they’re artists and educators, makeup artists and painters, yoga teachers and fashion designers, photographers and publicists, etc. Most creative New Yorkers are unique Venn diagrams, which made me realize that I could also be and do many things. I’m currently a consultant, coach, writer, and artist.

What has it been like to interact with the artist community in NY?

Being a part of the artist community of NYC has been profoundly rewarding and inspiring. The artists I have worked with and befriended here are hard-working, supportive, and value-centered. Every time I curate or participate in a show, I learn something new and get invited into a different slice of NYC that I didn’t know before.

What do you plan to do next?

I will continue my studio practice in Fort Greene, and plan to grow my work with art advisors, designers, and real estate companies. In the last year, I’ve curated and produced six group shows of women and non-binary artists who live and work in NYC. I hope to produce several more shows in 2023.

Does your work comment on current social or political issues? If so, how?

These paintings are inspired by family suicide loss and mental health crises, which came to a head at the beginning of the pandemic. It’s serendipity that the national suicide hotline #988 went live in July, and I had decided to launch this show in September, which is National Suicide Prevention Awareness month. Most of the paintings are inspired by research into the epigenetics of mental health, several completed and attempted suicides in my family, and the nature of loss and grief within families. This became a global conversation these past two years.

What is your favorite experience or exhibit that you encountered during your time in NYC?

I love finding pop-up collections and group shows, self-curated by the artists. There are dozens of opportunities in NYC every month, and it gives you a chance to meet the artists without the pressure or pretention of a high-ticket art fair or gallery show.

What brings you joy as an artist?

When I first showed a painting from the Our Stories series, a woman bought it immediately. She didn’t know the story or inspiration behind it, and when I told her my family history of suicide, addiction, and mental health challenges, she was in shock. She and I had very similar family histories, and she responded to something in the patterns, color, and composition that touched that tender place. It was deeply joyful to know that the piece brought her healing, as painting had brought me healing, too.

Make sure you stop by the RC office in September to say hello to the artist & view her work. And if you’d like more information about hosting your own art exhibit in our space (for free!), head here to learn more.