Josephine Halvorson at Sikkema Jenkins & Co

Josephine Halvorson can turn the most mundane roadside object, from discarded refuse to aged signage, into an object worthy of contemplation.  In her latest solo show at Sikkema Jenkins & Co titled ‘Unforgotten,’ the Massachusetts-based painter zeros in on remnants from the past, including a tumbleweed, a neglected work bulletin board and this rusted disconnect box.  A pleasingly symmetrical pattern of circular holes coexists with bullet holes, both of which let the late day sunlight pass through to create bright ovals of orange light.  The umber tones in the box and the landscape contrast a cloudless blue sky, adding beauty to a setting that few would value.  (On view in Chelsea through April 22nd).

Josephine Halvorson, Disconnect Box, acrylic gouache on panel, 32 x 26 inches, 2022.

Josephine Halvorson at Sikkema Jenkins & Co

The title of Josephine Halvorson’s exhibition of new painting, ‘As I Went Walking,’ refers to a verse in Woody Guthrie’s ‘This Land is Your Land’ about trespassing; Halvorson’s weathered signs and tattered boundary markers suggest that ownership of the land is not so easily claimed. (At Sikkema Jenkins & Co in Chelsea through Nov 22nd).

Josephine Halvorson, Jagged, oil on linen, 23 x 20 inches, 2017.

 

Josephine Halvorson at Sikkema Jenkins & Co

Known for her lovingly painted renditions of architecture and industrial equipment created in a single, long sitting, Josephine Halvorson has turned her attention to her more immediate surroundings in her new Massachusetts home. Using paint to render a door covered with chipped paint, Halvorson’s knowing play with her material is a pleasure to experience. (At Sikkema Jenkins & Co through March 1st).

Josephine Halvorson, Woodshed Door, oil on linen, 70 x 35 inches, 2013.