From the first painting in Jennifer Packer’s solo show at Sikkema Malloy Jenkins to the final piece, the artist pictures individuals in repose. Several figures lie on couches while nearby, their intimates read, smoke or simply look on. In other works, heads fill the canvas, appearing to be sleeping peacefully, though they are rendered in visceral, red tones. Packer’s first show of new work at the gallery since the unexpected death of her partner in 2021 poignantly pictures moments of absence and presence, usually in the same painting, while continuing her signature focus on the unique beauty and value of her subjects. Here, in a piece called ‘Melt,’ a figure slumps down with a bag by her feet, as if grateful to arrive in a peaceful place of rest. (On view in Chelsea through Dec 13th).
