you’re us
In 2011, returning from six years studying traditional painting in Italy, I founded You’re US. You’re US is a collaborative public arts organization creating location-based multimedia documentaries. You’re US was modeled on the 1935 WPA (Works Progress Administration) and the legacy of colonial America’s folk portraitists known as “limners.”
Employing the Zimmerman tradition of self reliant travel, I crossed the US by bicycle, entering American’s homes, convents, lean-tos, encampments. Over the span of a week my hosts would sit for me as I painted their portrait. Each day they’d open their lives, providing shelter and board, and the opportunity to better preserve the various ways people manage life in the US.
Collaborating radio producers, musicians, and authors used recordings and documentation gathered during my time with each of these Americans to create multimedia works which coupled with the paintings.
Note: On iPhones, for in-page audio playback select “Request Desktop Website” in your browser settings
The series to date portrays three dozen US citizens from ten states. The paintings are co-owned by the subject and the organization, and placed in the care of the individuals represented.The digital records of these works have been added to university archives. The physical works, and accompanying audio and literary media, have been exhibited in museums, galleries, and universities.
You’re US was sponsored by the New York Foundation For the Arts, the series has been covered by outlets including Wavefarm, Vice, PBS, The New York Times, among many others.
The organization is currently on hiatus, in preparation for its next series of works and collaborations.
Collaborators included: Jeff Emptman, Shani Aviram, Gabriel Zucher, J.J. Beck, The Blind Willies, Richard Haig, iSing Choir, Karen Linford, Chris Hoff, Lea Thau, The Kitchen Sisters, Joe Richman, Carol Zakaluk, Swift Industries, Blue Ridge Oil Colors, NYFA, The Biggs Museum of American Arts, The Bedminster Center for Contemporary Art, Salem Art Works, University of Virginia, Kamala Puligandla, among many others.
