Join local Boston artist J Rowen O’Dwyer (they/she/he) for an inspiring afternoon of discussion and art-making. Starting with a conversation in the Poss Family Mediatheque, O’Dwyer will discuss how ideas of representation, queer history, and community organizing inform their interdisciplinary art practice.
Following the talk, join O’Dwyer for a beginner-friendly live figure drawing session in Portraits from the ICA Collection. In this relaxed and experimental session, you will be invited to draw and be drawn, embracing self-representation in an intimate and supportive space. No experience necessary! Just come ready to listen and create.
While all experience levels are welcome, this workshop is designed for adults. Supplies are limited; first come, first served. This program is inspired by the exhibition Portraits from the ICA Collection.
Images of works of art with mature material including nudity, and sexual content will be shown as part of the lecture portion of this program.
J Rowen O’Dwyer (they/she/he) is an interdisciplinary artist currently living and working in the Boston area. They received their M.F.A. from the School of the Museum of Fine Arts ‘24 and their B.A. in studio art from Agnes Scott College ‘20. Their research focuses on intergenerational queer histories of community organizing, embodiment practices, and spirituality through kink and leather communities. His paintings situate young queers within this rich history, shining a light on the human elements of connection and the healing and vulnerable act of seeing and being seen. Creating real spaces for liberation and connection is the foundation for O’Dwyer’s practice. At the heart of her work is the time she spends in community through ritual and magic making, event organizing, documenting moments, and forming entanglements with others.
