Jens Lerback, Something Red Judge 2025
About the Artist
Artist’s Statement
I grew up in Lahaina, Maui and Kona, Hawaii, where I developed an early passion for
drawing. My parents encouraged me to observe local artists when they were
painting on the beach, and in high school I took lessons from a few prominent
Hawaiian painters. I appreciate my parents for seeing the artist in me.
Later, I studied fine art at the University of Hawaii and the University of Oregon,
where I also earned my Professional Architectural degree. I worked as an architect
for major firms in Portland and Southern California and I also had my own business
illustrating architecture with graphite, colored pencils, and watercolor.
After retiring to Oregon, I began drawing and painting outdoors in summer,
attracted by nature’s challenges. I mainly use oil paints on wood panels and find
sharing my process rewarding. In winter, I paint larger works indoors, drawing
inspiration from music and light, often using summer sketches as references. While
traveling, I create abstract sketches labeled ‘In Flight Entertainment’ for future
paintings. Though demanding, each project is fulfilling.
Thank you to the Artists in Action board for inviting me to judge your show, and to
everyone who participated. The works that were submitted this year were
extraordinary. Every artist here should be applauded for their talent and dedication
to making art. Your vision, perspective, and technique is purely your own and bucks
against the dehumanizing forces of artificial intelligence. Thank you for bringing
your brilliance to your work and for giving us the chance to gather in celebration as
a community. Brent Allen and the Elsinore Gallery also deserve every appreciation
for championing each of us in our creative work. Thank you for hosting Something
Red again this year!
Exhibition Record
Solo and Group Shows
Oregon State Fair Salem, Oregon (annual exhibits)
Bush Barn Annex –Salem, Oregon (Radius 25 Exhibit)
White Oak Gallery, Silverton, Oregon
Lunaria Art Gallery, Silverton, Oregon
Elsinore Frame and Art Gallery, Salem, Oregon
Second Story Gallery, San Dimas, California
Square I Gallery, Claremont, California
Claremont Museum of Art Claremont, California (artists annual exhibit)
California Botanic Garden Claremont, California (auctions)
Made in California, Brea, California (regional annual art exhibit),
Sasse Museum of Art, Pomona, California (Permanent Collection)
About the artist
Art by Jens Lerback
