Katie Hector, a New Jersey-born artist, curator, and writer currently based in Los Angeles, presents a selection of her paintings that delve into the depths of human experience. Through her unique process-based approach, Hector creates portrait-like images that explore themes of loss, grief, intimacy, and longing, inspired by feelings of isolation and dissociation.

A Conversation with the Canvas

Hector’s studio practice revolves around the meticulous layering of dye and bleach onto canvas, eschewing traditional mediums like acrylic in favor of a more direct engagement with the material. Through this unconventional technique, she engages in a dialogue with the canvas itself, pushing the boundaries of its fibers and exploring its capacity to retain or release pigment. The resulting artworks bear the memory of this process, yielding hauntingly beautiful portraits that evoke a sense of personhood and uncanniness.

Exploring Themes of Human Experience

Within each painting, Hector delves into the complexities of human emotion, grappling with the profound impact of loss and longing. Her works serve as visual representations of the internal struggles faced by individuals in moments of isolation and dissociation. Through her art, Hector invites viewers to confront their own experiences of vulnerability and introspection, fostering a sense of empathy and connection.

In essence, Katie Hector’s paintings serve as poignant reflections of the human condition, capturing the essence of emotions that transcend language and culture. Through her innovative use of materials and her commitment to exploring themes of loss and intimacy, Hector invites viewers on a journey of self-discovery and emotional resonance.