jac lahav

FOSTER PAINTINGS

jac lahav
FOSTER PAINTINGS

2021 - PRESENT

In late 2021, I began a series of abstract paintings recording the phone calls we received for foster placements. Physically, these works begin with a vibrant blue gradient mechanically printed on synthetic velvet. The foreground gem like shape is primarily painted in flashe, a heavy vinyl paint known for its vibrant color and luscious satin texture.

With over 45 paintings to date, these works are a deep dive chronicle of my fostering journey. Each painting references a point of contact with a foster child. From three boys (ages 12, 10, 9) we hosted over memorial day weekend, to a call we received (and declined) for an infant with severe shaken baby syndrome, each painting carries a specific emotional weight.

These works also represent my exploration into abstraction. Relying on the figure posed a problem in my recent studio practice. In my relationship with foster children I am not allowed to use their representational images.

My daily life is filled with complex, impossible, gut wrenching decisions. The foster paintings are an attempt to process some of the emotional fallout within the studio.

EXHIBITIONS
Meantime CO, NY - 2022
Lyman Allyn Art Museum, CT - 2023
Second Street Gallery, VA - 2024

AWARDS & GRANTS
Community Foundation Of South Eastern CT, 2023
CT Foster and Adoptive Families Community Partner Award, CT, 2024

ESSAY BY HEATHER DARCY BHANDARI

Foster Paintings : Mockup for Lyman Allyn Museum Exhibition - August 2023

Detail of Foster Painting, 2023

Studio Lahav

RECORD PAINTINGS


In the groundbreaking exhibition "Hot 100: Record Paintings," contemporary artist Jac Lahav offers a unique fusion of painting, contemporary art, and music through a series of over 100 paintings inspired by iconic record covers. Drawing from their vast vinyl collection, Lahav reimagines the visual and auditory essence of influential hip-hop, rock and roll, and various music genres, bridging the gap between personal nostalgia and collective memory. This series not only celebrates the profound impact of music on our cultural landscape but also showcases Lahav's exceptional ability to translate the ephemeral nature of sound into captivating visual art. With limited prints available from their Spring/Break Art Fair showcase in September 2023, "Hot 100: Record Paintings" invites art and music enthusiasts into an analog oasis, rekindling the deep connections between auditory and visual artistic expression in our digitally dominated era.

Studio Lahav
RECORD PAINTINGS
Studio Lahav

PLANT PAINTING & INSTALL

In the dynamic intersection of horticulture and contemporary art, plant installations have emerged as a captivating medium, blending the natural world with artistic expression to create immersive experiences. These living artworks, often large-scale and site-specific, engage audiences by transforming ordinary spaces into lush, green environments that challenge our perceptions of nature and art. As both a celebration of botanical beauty and a commentary on environmental and personal themes, plant installations are at the forefront of contemporary art, drawing attention from art enthusiasts, environmentalists, and the general public alike. This unique fusion of horticulture and art not only beautifies spaces but also inspires reflection on our connection with nature, making it a significant trend in today's art world.

Studio Lahav
PLANT PAINTING & INSTALL