Our Americana - A Solo Show by Chloe Alexander

Gallery 1202 presents Our Americana, a solo show by Chloe Alexander. In this whimsical show, Chloe Alexander creates an alternative narrative to the traditional Americana. Through the marriage of figurative expression and a dream-like pastel color palette, Alexander creates delicate, stunning works. 

In this body of work, Chloe Alexander illustrates young people of color either in physical motion or in poses of beautiful contemplation. Encapsulating a memory and a story, Alexander’s pieces are rich with narrative and a sense of place. Incredibly detailed and surreal, this work reflects skilled thoughtful talent from an internationally exhibited printmaker.  

“Americana is a term that evokes a specific imagery in the minds of many. Perhaps it is a scene that is reminiscent of a Norman Rockwell painting- a family joyfully enjoying a meal together, children exploring the outdoors, or a quintessential moment between a boy and his dog. While these images are inherently wholesome and nostalgic, there are many of us who are unable to envision ourselves in these scenes. We too, are American- whether our ancestors arrived here by force, or immigrated in the pursuit of freedom and opportunity- and yet, despite having played a fundamental part of the building of this country, we are often omitted or erased from the visual canon. 

Conversely, rather than being associated with images of wholesome purity, our stories are routinely characterized as being traumatic and saddled by oppression. However, our histories, our lives are not a monolith. They are diverse, complex, and meaningful, and frequently untold.  Our Americana is a counter-narrative to the prevailing belief that our lives are not worthy of celebration and joy. They are uniquely American in both their nuance, and their ability to prevail beyond what is known or expected.” - Chloe Alexander

 The show will take place in our physical location, 7363 Monterey Street, Gilroy, CA, from August 19, 2022, through October 2, 2022. The opening reception will take place on August 19th, from 6-9pm, and the closing reception will be on October 2nd, 2022, from 12-3pm.