A deeply-felt contemplation of the beauty of the Southern Landscape, at times both welcoming and hostile. Evocative photographs, prints and installed works utilizing historic processes lend a sense of nostalgia and longing to imagery representative of the artist’s upbringing and search for a sense of belonging as a second-generation American and first-generation Kentuckian.

For the past 5 years, Jacob Herrera Wachal has been developing a body of work which explores the intricacies of navigating his home as an outsider and the complex feelings associated with that—the fear/reality of being perceived as Other and the pressure to assimilate, accompanied by the contrary desire to uphold and celebrate his Filipino heritage.

Nagdamgo ako Ani is Wachal’s first Lexington-based exhibition since 2018, and will feature a variety of work from his MFA Thesis recontextualized alongside a number of new photographs. Please join Jacob for his opening reception on April 4th from 5-8 PM, with an artist talk scheduled for 6:30—he will also be serving a variety of Filipino foods lovingly prepared with his Lola’s recipes. Closing reception to follow during LexArts HOP on May 16th 5-9PM.

Lexington Art League Gallery Hours: Wed-Sat 12-5PM.

To view the full artist statement, click here