New Exhibit “Nothing To See Here” Showcases Jesse Wiedel’s Art

A new exhibit titled “Nothing To See Here” featuring the latest works by artist Jesse Wiedel is currently on display at the Morris Graves Museum of Art in Eureka. The exhibit runs through August 24, 2024, and showcases Wiedel’s unique narrative paintings inspired by the local community, its landmarks, and his upbringing in California’s Central Valley.

The exhibit will host an Arts Alive! reception on August 2 from 18:00 to 21:00, offering visitors a chance to engage with the artist and explore his work in a vibrant atmosphere. Wiedel has been a resident of Eureka since 1991, and his artistic journey has deeply intertwined with the experiences and stories of the region.

Artistic Background and Inspirations

Wiedel’s paintings draw from a diverse range of influences, including his memories of California’s Central Valley and the landscapes of the Mojave Desert. He studied art at Shasta College in Redding and later earned a degree in painting from the San Francisco Art Institute in 1988. His artistic career has taken him beyond Humboldt County, with exhibitions in major cities such as San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Portland, and Joshua Tree, and more recently in London and Berlin.

Described as “a cross between van Gogh, Bruegel, and Mike Judge,” Wiedel’s work juxtaposes joyful celebrations of life with poignant narratives of hardship. His paintings resonate with both local and broader audiences, reflecting the complexity of the human experience.

Engagement and Accessibility

On August 3, Wiedel will participate in an Art Talk at 14:00, discussing his work and the themes behind the current exhibit. This event is part of the museum’s monthly Art Talk Sunday program, which fosters dialogue between artists and art enthusiasts through discussions, demonstrations, and explorations of various artistic techniques.

The Morris Graves Museum of Art operates from noon to 17:00, Wednesday through Sunday. Admission is set at $5 for adults, $2 for seniors (aged 65 and over), military veterans, and students with ID. Children aged 17 and under, families with an EBT card and valid ID, and museum members can enter for free. Notably, the first Saturday of every month, including the day of the Arts Alive! event, is free for all visitors.

This exhibit provides a unique opportunity for the community to engage with local art, offering insights into the narratives that shape our lives and surroundings through the lens of Jesse Wiedel’s compelling visual storytelling.