jason revok in conversation

with senior curator laurie ann farrell

Tell us a little about your work?

I think with my practice I like to play with the tension of opposing forces. All of the things around us both in the visible and invisible spectrum are the product of some sort of compromise between a number of things in conflict that ultimately settle into a state neither intended; in both physical terms and ideologically. This seems to be an inherent “law of the universe” and the basis of the “connection of everything” I hope the things I make can serve as an object to meditate on this idea.

Does living in Detroit have an influence on your work?

Yes I would definitely say so... I understand what my experience in this amazing city did for me in the past, what and how it will effect and inform me now and in the future I guess time will eventually tell.

Can you talk about the influence of music on some of your paintings?

Music is a huge part of my life, and is always present in the studio... Thom Yorke may be deserving of co-creator recognition at this point.

My Tape Loop works are also heavily inspired by music, or experimental noise. They are based on 'The Disintegration Loops' by William Basinski, who attempted to digitize old tapes in the 80s and instead ended up with droning and interference as the spools broke apart. I try to create a similar effect in paint.

What are you currently working on, have you been making work during the shelter in place?

Most of my time is spent working when not with my family. Emotionally the current situation has obviously had a major impact on not just me personally but the entire world... I’ve come to realize I’ve been “socially distancing for years! So not a lot has changed day to day... what will come out of this experience is yet to be seen, but I suspect our ride has just begun.

Jason Revok, SpiroB/W2_5/20, 2020. Synthetic polymer and acrylic spray paint on shaped canvas.

Jason Revok, SpiroB/W2_5/20, 2020. Synthetic polymer and acrylic spray paint on shaped canvas.

A001_03310245_C020.01_17_20_06.Still046.JPG
A001_03310245_C020.01_17_26_18.Still047.JPG
Jason Revok, BrokenLoop_3/20_small, 2020. Synthetic polymer and oil enamel on canvas.

Jason Revok, BrokenLoop_3/20_small, 2020. Synthetic polymer and oil enamel on canvas.

Jason Revok, KundaliniLoop_B/Y/P_4/20, 2020. Acrylic, spray paint, and synthetic polymer with oil enamel on canvas.

Jason Revok, KundaliniLoop_B/Y/P_4/20, 2020. Acrylic, spray paint, and synthetic polymer with oil enamel on canvas.

about jason revok

Born in 1977, Riverside, California, Jason Revok is known for pushing creative boundaries that began with street culture. Self-taught, his story begins with graffiti and evolves into a decade of focusing on his studio practice and significant next steps. Revok allows limited elements from graffiti culture to transition into his current work, including modest materials and industrial tools. Yet, his interest in minimalism and post-abstraction has become his focus. Examining and questioning authorship, Revok has developed both systematic and imperfect tools to carry out his creative energy. He has exhibited in group exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, as well as the Pasadena Museum of California Art. His paintings have been shown internationally in various galleries and are in a number of seminal private collections.

Jason Revok lives and works in Detroit, Michigan.