Expo Chicago 2024

April 11 - 14, 2024
Exposure Section, Booth 328 // navy pier Chicago

Residency Art Gallery is proud to announce our participation in the 2024 edition of Expo Chicago. Join us at Booth 328 on Navy Pier in Chicago where we will be presenting work by Jacob Rochester on view from April 11 to April 14. Rochester's work delves deeply into themes of family, ethnicity, and the fabric of contemporary culture. 

Jacob Rochester // Its just a matter of time, 2024 // 30x20

About the exhibition

Jacob Rochester's current body of work stands as a testament to the enduring significance of family values while simultaneously celebrating the profound influence of black creatives across various industries. Through his art, Rochester delves deep into the emergence and impact of black artists within realms such as music and culture, shedding light on their historical contributions while also exploring their contemporary relevance. Central to Rochester's artistic exploration are motifs that provoke contemplation on themes of self-worth and value, both in the context of the past and in today's world. His paintings serve as windows into the complexities of identity and representation, inviting viewers to ponder the multifaceted layers of personal and societal worth.

In his artistic process, Rochester employs a traditional method characterized by an additive approach, wherein he begins with a grisaille base and gradually builds layers through glazing techniques. This meticulous process imbues his canvases with depth and richness, mirroring the nuanced narratives he seeks to convey. An integral aspect of Rochester's artistic practice is his utilization of imagery sourced from his personal record collection. This collection, comprising dollar and bargain-bin records alongside cherished family ephemera, serves as a treasure trove of inspiration. Rochester skillfully recontextualizes these artifacts, infusing them into his paintings to evoke moments of nostalgia and introspection within a contemporary framework.

Through his nuanced approach to storytelling and his adept blending of personal history with broader cultural themes, Jacob Rochester's body of work resonates with a profound sense of authenticity and relevance. In celebrating the legacies of black creatives and honoring the enduring bonds of family, Rochester's art serves as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of past, present, and future.

About the ArtisT

Jacob Rochester

As a multi-disciplinary artist, Jacob Rochester brings to life the rich and complex history of black Americana through his paintings. Born in Bloomfield, CT, Rochester is deeply passionate about exploring the evolution of culture at the turn of the 21st century. His vivid portraits and still lifes offer a compelling glimpse into the cultural icons and artifacts that define the era of black America's emergence as a global standard for innovation in entertainment, fashion, and pop culture. His work draws from a range of influences and often traditional techniques that drive his distinctive style.