The Milligan Arts Council launched a new Artist Lecture Series showcasing the vibrant artistic talent emerging from Johnson City’s growing cultural landscape.
The lecture on Feb. 11 featured Jocelyn Mathewes, an accomplished interdisciplinary mixed-media artist. Mathewes, who holds bachelor’s degrees in studio art and English literature from Messiah College, has exhibited her pieces in galleries, museums and community spaces across the United States.
Art Brown, chair of the Milligan Arts Council, introduced Mathewes and thanked those in attendance and the staff contributing.
Mathewes discussed her art and how it relates to her relationship with chronic illness.
“A lot of my work is about my personal experience with chronic illness and dealing with what the medical industry has to say,” Mathewes said. “This informs my work, but it’s not always the main topic of my work, and I have other bodies of work that do not address this.”
Mathewes has made significant contributions to Johnson City’s artist community. In 2020, she established EAT/ART space, an innovative pop-up gallery in her home that challenges traditional exhibitions. The alternative gallery space represents her commitment to making art more accessible to local audiences and artists. She also discussed the Local Artist Meetup she hosts for artists to have panels for professional development and share their art.
“It’s fun and easier to have a creative life with other people who are doing a creative life,” she said as her reason for doing this.
Mathewes brings a wealth of experience and unique perspectives to Milligan’s artistic minds. Her presentation offered valuable insights into the intersection of various artistic mediums and the landscape of contemporary art in Eastern Tennessee.
The next lecture, featuring artist Jason Flack, will be April 3.
See more of Mathewes work
See more about EAT/ART Space
See more about Local Artist Meetup
Pic 1: Jocelyn Mathewes speaking about her art Credit: Gabby Jones
About The Author:
Gabrielle Jones is a sophomore from Elizabethton. She is a Multimedia Journalism major and a Filmmaking minor. She is the Social Media Manager for Stampede. She enjoys horror media, reading, and film.