Bio
Jerstin Crosby (He/Him) is a contemporary Southern artist raised in Alabama and based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. With roots grounded in his upbringing and surroundings, he creates layered relief paintings that delve into themes of identity, memory, and myth. Crosby received an MFA from UNC-Chapel Hill and a BFA from the University of Alabama. His work has been featured in New American Paintings, Art Papers, Art Forum and exhibited in galleries and contemporary art museums over the last 15 years.
Artist Statement
My paintings mostly feature distorted faces rendered with hard edges, vibrant colors and textured layers that add depth. I blend together handcrafted details with a manufactured aesthetic to create artwork that explores the state of being human right now. These figurative motifs serve as character studies and reflections on the human condition, capturing our constant shift between digital and earthly realms.
I draw inspiration from reading history and archaeology, exploring the enduring connections between past and present. I'm intrigued by the mysteries of ancient artifacts and their makers, pondering how to infuse my art with the complexity of our times. Ultimately, my art invites viewers to reflect on the timeless echoes of human existence across generations and the mystery of being alive.
My latest work delves into Southern history and folklore. This new series weaves together memory and myth to contemplate strategies that recontextualize Southern identity and stereotypes.