Jacob Yeates looks to moments of physical and emotional extremity in order to explore larger issues of pervasive, sociopolitical violence, often within the context of the Western world’s continued military engagements, and by extension, his own direct or indirect involvement in these situations. By placing himself and viewers in these circumstances via preexisting narratives—be they historical, current events, or even fictional frameworks—an otherwise difficult experience can be examined and, hopefully, understood on a more human, sympathetic level.
Yeates combines drafting and painting processes rooted in traditional print illustration with more contemporary practices of conceptual metaphor and visual journalism. With figurative representation at its core, and the synthesis of multiple narratives, Yeates seeks to create spaces which acknowledge the inevitable uncertainty and distortions present in violent situations, yet still serve to inform an audience, and ultimately encourage self-reflection and personal accountability.
Be sure to join us on Friday, May 12th from 6-9pm at the MFA Graduate Studios to enjoy Jacob‘s thesis work, along with the other 2017 graduates!
MFA Thesis Exhibition and Reception
For more information: visit Jacob Yeates online.
