There is a care and craft to the work of Jessica Goldfinch that combines with what I perceive as a relatable bleakness in these portraits. Images of children without protectors can mirror my adult fears.  I expected a little more relief within the agency and independence of adulthood, but am instead cast into a climate of 1984 meets Lord of the Flies. Darn it. As per usual, it’s the best and the worst of times. I am happy to be able to take in the perspectives of Jessica Goldfinch, and to absorb this wonderful body of work with which I have been projecting and processing my thoughts and associations. Since writing this intro, I have received Jessicas artist statement which is as follows!

-Adam Farrington

“Locked Out” by Jessica Goldfinch

In my work I investigate issues of human morality and social conditions through the use of Freudian concepts of the uncanny. I fuse the familiar with the unfamiliar to draw the viewer in and create a comfortable feeling only to shatter that comfort with unexpected images. Household objects as protectors or imprisoners of one's humanity speak to the dilemma of existing in a society where we need protection. Use of childhood isolation and mystery represent the time when we are most venerable and in need of security that many are without.

The artwork intends to portray the exquisite beauty of life, as well as the disturbing chaos life sometimes can be. I depict my subject matter seriously but with humor and irony. For me this reflects life which is beautiful yet disturbing, joyful and tragic, sardonic and unpredictable.  Although my work speaks of isolation and vulnerability,  it is meant to be a reminder of the preciousness of life—a memento mori.