Ernest Jolly: Natural Reaction

Curator. San Francisco Arts Commission Galleries: Grove St. Window Installation Site. May - June 2011

The SFAC Gallery presents Natural Reaction, a new site-specific work by Bay Area artist Ernest Jolly. Natural Reaction is an installation created in response to recent disasters resulting from tsunamis and floodwaters. Jolly explains, “The coast has always been a place where I have sought refuge from internal and external noise. More often than not the coast is a reminder of transition and change. It is also a place where the abrupt violence of nature can all at once change lives forever and minutes later recede back into its self.”

Taking full advantage of the space, Natural Reaction fills the 400 sq. ft. storefront with large sculptural elements that actively disrupt more serene installation components such as a shallow reflecting pool filled with water, and an expansive backlit scrim complete with whispy white clouds. Jolly worked with musician/sound artist Chris Evans to create a soundtrack that will catch the attention of passersby.