Artist Jo Nanajian, originally from Beirut, Lebanon, has lived in the US for 15 years and counting. She finds inspiration in the interplay between materials, narratives, and identity. Armed with a BFA in General Fine Arts with a concentration in Book Arts from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), her creative journey has been marked by a relentless exploration of form and meaning.
With a diverse exhibition history spanning galleries from Boston, New York, to Tokyo, her work has been showcased alongside prominent artists and curators, such as Hank Willis Thomas’ collective, For Freedoms, featured her work at Praise Shadows Gallery. Each exhibition reveals a commitment to pushing artistic boundaries from the introspective depth of Narration Within the Materials in Tokyo to the provocative engagement of Let Love Quiet Fear in Boston.
Nanajian also earns recognition from a notable base, including Jorge Pérez of Miami. Media coverage has also spotlighted Nanajian’s work, with publications such as ArtScope Magazine and Mirror-Spectator recognizing her innovative approach to sculpture and exploration of identity.
In addition to exhibitions and collections, Nanajian has been awarded the Boston Center of the Arts Studio Residency and the Fountainhead Residency in Miami. These experiences have provided invaluable opportunities of immersion in new environments, collaborate with fellow artists, and further refine their craft. As Nanajian continues to build narratives through art, their commitment to pushing boundaries and challenging conventions promises an exciting trajectory in the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary art.