Midcity, Los Angeles
Jessica Lichtenstein
Nypmhtopia
Allouche GalleryAllouche Gallery is delighted to present Nympthopia, a solo exhibition of multi-media works by New York-based artist Jessica Lichtenstein. Nympthopia explores themes of womanhood specifically in regards to the link shared between femininity and nature, and the power within that bond. In this collection of works by Lichtenstein the female protagonist stands unbroken, with countless women resiliently and mystically reclaiming the earth in the tapestry of the future. The force of Mother Nature holds eternal power over the man-made creations of the world - nature prevails as skyscrapers crumble and human ambitions rust. Through Greek folklore tradition, nymphs re- present the authority of female beauty. Ever-present in nature, nymphs are deeply related to vegetation.... spreading across mountains, drifting through the water flows, scouring the forests and the lonely trees—a testament to life’s embrace. This discussion of femininity and power is carried through a series of vibrant new works by Jessica Lichten- stein, with her mixed media renderings providing lively and fantastical visions of beyond. The scale and shape of these works mimic cathedral windows, providing an inviting and familar portal to peer at the alternative parallell where nymphs revel in their play. In addition to her windows to Nymphtopia, Lichtenstain has included a variety of leafed metallic works, with the medium itself speaking on the beauty of delicacy and female vulnerability. Using the female body as a mechanism to explore deeper themes of power, female representation, fetishism and objectification in a way that reminisces on youthful play and wonder, Lichtenstein’s work embodies the very paradox she is trying to explore. Her work consciously plays with the boundaries of power, commercialization, consumerism, fantasy and propriety, provoking tensions that challenge the viewer to confront his or her own gaze. Jessica Lichtenstein studied at Yale University and has exhibited at various international gallery and fair showings. Her work has received great recognition, including publications with Artnet News, Surface, The New York Post, and The New York Times. Nympthopia marks Lichtenstein’s second solo exhibition with Allouche Gallery, in addition to other various group and fair showings.