Joyce Owens

More Than Skin Deep #8, #10, #13
mixed media

The ‘More Than Skin Deep’ series is a continuation into my exploration of materials, crossing painting and sculpture. This particular group started in 2010 (a triptych is currently on exhibit in Stockholm, Sweden at the U.S. Embassy).

My signature manipulated canvas is acrylics on archival board on wood blocks in wood boxes with found materials. Using concepts of traditional African mask making, I produce contemporary arrangements that honor the magical/spiritual aspects of the historic forms. My artworks confront personally experienced topics around race and gender, issues that distress many people internationally and seem to never go away. From these sculptural forms I hope you can imagine humanity rising together.“

Tenured art professor and Curator at Chicago State University, Owens attended Yale (MFA) and Howard University (BFA); Ragdale Fellow Owens won two First Prize internationals at Woman Made Gallery (Margaret Hawkins, art critic; Faith Ringgold, artist), 3Arts, The Women Caucus for Art, The African American Arts Alliance, Diasporal Rhythms Artist, first prize and other awards at the Museum of Science and Industry’ Black Creativity, and more. She has had numerous solo and group exhibitions in galleries, museums and art centers.

Owens has been included in local, national and international publications, has earned commissions including creating an award in 2011 for Lois Weisberg, the commissioner of the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs for 22 years, Mount Sinai Hospital Clinic in Chicago and exhibited her art on four continents.

Owens is a member of Sapphire and Crystals collective.

© Joyce Owens