Jo Ann Biagini: Botanical Imaginary

Jo Ann Biagini continues her poetic exploration of the natural world in Botanical Imaginary. Her combination of text and image in layered, improvisational imagery enfolds the scholarship of the botanical sciences in the chaotic, unpredictable forces of nature.

The exhibition is anchored by two large works in Biagini’s signature mixed media style. Full Bloom starts with a grid of pages from a vintage textbook classifying tree flowers. Then, graphic imagery including botanical illustrations and woodblock prints are transferred on transparent overlays. Next, atmospheric watercolor washes and her own drawings are overlapped. Finally, she integrates the layers by sanding back into the accrued materials. This additive and subtractive process is repeated in Wild Palms, a piece inspired by fallen palm fronds the artist collected during last winter’s series of atmospheric river storms. The base grid is again comprised of book pages, this time a compendium of palm species. Biagini’s unique process creates singular moments within an immersive experience.

July 28 – September 2, 2023

Artists’ Reception: Sunday, August 13, 4-6 pm

Oakland Art Murmur / First Fridays: August 4 & September 1, 5 – 9pm