Jo Ann Block

Jo Ann Block is a Los Angeles, CA based mixed media artist investigating queer history, sexuality, and identity as they are inscribed within historical and contemporary culture. She aims to subvert existing norms around aging, power, and the social relevance of lesbians. She received her B.F.A. from UCLA and M.F.A. from Vermont College of Fine Arts. Her work is in the collection of the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art. She held a fellowship with Touchstone Gallery (DC), and two summer residencies at SVA in NY. Her work has been exhibited at A.I.R. Gallery (NY), American University Museum (DC), Transformer Gallery (DC) Williamsburg Art and Historical Center (NY) Metrospace (MI), Baum Gallery of Fine Art (AK), Thompson Gallery (MA) and Launch LA (CA).

Artist’s Statement

I am a mixed media artist investigating queer history, sexuality, and identity as they are inscribed within historical and contemporary culture. I aim to subvert existing norms around aging, power, and the social relevance of lesbians.

Working with collage and assemblage is a natural medium for constructing queer, non-binary identity. The ordering and reordering of components replicate the personal choices and expressions that make a composite whole.

My work has guided my search to understand ageism, sexism, and homophobia in their various forms. It has led me to wonder if the desire to know ourselves is ultimately unintelligible and unattainable?  This question continues to drive my work.