This March, Stephanie Chefas Projects is opening Immerse, the latest exhibition from Portland-based artist Yellena James. Rendered in vibrant color, James' ethereal forms overlap amidst a limitless expanse, organic elements thrive within fully conceived ecosystems, as the collective result, her encompassing universe invites viewers to experience these hypnotic creations.
With Immerse, James experiments with round panels layered with vibrant paint and clear resin, adding a discernible sense of space and separation to the work. In turn, the painted transmutations seem suspended from their respective terrains. Providing even greater depth are the presence of shadows beneath various forms, lending a palpable layer of believability. Nevertheless, a transcendent and otherworldly vibe persists.
"In these works, I continue to explore a chimerical landscape and the life forms that exist and interact within. I often have pieces that appear heavy at the top, but the heavy elements are elevated as if given support by the atmosphere that surrounds them. Entire ecosystems are suspended and floating like the one we find ourselves in. I like to explore contrast between vibrantly colored living elements that thrive together within an expansive background. Lately, I've been experimenting with resin, as if adding "clear" to my color palette. It gives separation, where some of the painted forms are suspended separately from the terrain. These forms are given the ability to cast shadows which lends another layer of believability to their existence."
