Statement

“Figuring out how things work and discovering what components are necessary to create a fully functional machine intrigues me. Investigating the dynamics between combining the mechanical with the Biological is a recurring conceptual direction that often reveals itself as the focal point throughout much of my work. Representing machines in a metaphorical or literal direction frequently shifts from piece to piece. In the form of schematic drawings, I am able to define the function and purpose of created elements that border between real objects and imaginary creations. By using different labeling systems to illustrate and organize an object, I am able to provide a commentary on a multitude of subjects while creating complex, purpose-driven machines.”

Bio

Utilizing a machine based language and aesthetic Justin Amrhein’s work is generally based on environmentalism, drawing attention to our increasingly precarious climate crisis.  While rooted in drawing and painting Amrhein’s work takes on many forms, adopting the appropriate medium to realize the concept such as video, sculpture and collage.  His body of work is extensive and diverse ranging from small drawings on paper to large-scale public installations. Amrhein received his BA at Humboldt State University and his MFA at San Jose State University.  Most recently he held a residence at the 2020 Ali Youssefi Project in Sacramento, CA and the FBAIR program in Palo Alto, CA 2018.  His work has shown at the Spencer Museum of Art, Lawrence, Kansas, Ronald Feldman Gallery, New York, NY, Pierogi Gallery, Brooklyn, NY, Transmitter, Brooklyn, NY, and Honey Ramka, Brooklyn New York to name a few.   Amrhein’s work has been reviewed in the New Yorker, The Wall street International, Ephemera New York City Art and Culture, The Sacramento Bee, Timeout Lisboa and Art News amongst others.