Jenny Chernansky

I am interested in moods, tones, and subconscious imaginings, in the relationship between the real and unreal, and the mind creating a friction and symbiosis between the two. Often drawing from historical, symbolic, religious and mythological imagery, I trace anew an ontology of woman representation and inequality, by translating contemporary feminist ideas into works where new media is often paired with traditional techniques such as oil, egg tempera, and medium format film.

My work usually has several layers of meaning, in the way a dreamer sees images in the attempt at recollection. The inner landscape of our minds is explored weaving a labyrinth of dream-like images; exploring concepts of the shadow self, cross-cultural symbolism, and the transformation of the female archetype of the virgin/whore dichotomy which pervades most of western art and religion.

My practice explores themes relating to historic depictions of female figures from religion and mythology which have embodied negative societal archetypes in an attempt to rewrite the narrative from a more empathetic viewpoint which seeks to confront and unify the split in perception. By peering into the darkness, sometimes we find our outside monsters are often reflections of our own inner selves.

It could be what is simply represented on the surface, or could symbolize a deeper meaning, a universal symbol, or a personal emotion. Regardless of it being profound or mundane or both, the underlying mystery is a vital component.

Artist Bio

Jenny Chernansky's work has been shown internationally in Mexico, Hong Kong, London, Rome, Barcelona, Budapest, as well as shows throughout the US. Jenny's work has received several Juror's choice and honorable mention awards, as well as the R.K. Mitchell Award for Excellence. Jenny attended the New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts, received her BA from Columbia College Chicago and MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

email: jen.cherna@gmail.com

Instagram: @Bastnoir