Solo Exhibition & Market

In this companion exhibition to his 2023 short film, JINN JULIAN, Jae Sterling (@jaesterling) examines the life of the fictional character Julian, providing an intimate investigation into the character's emotionally complex existence. In "JULIAN’S DREAD," through film, props, oil, and digital paintings, we explore symbols of Jamaican youth, Christian fanaticism, magical realism, and theosophy. Through the various mediums, Sterling invites the viewer to contemplate: What powers does Julian have? What old spirits live in Julian’s paintings and books? Where does he go not only in his dreams but also through the many pasts and futures he is forced to visit to fulfil his purpose? Figurative, surreal, and impressionist styles converge to create an immersive exhibition meant to overwhelm and provoke the viewer.

“I ground my work in the unique realities of what it feels like to be Jamaican in the Canadian Prairies, but I also explore what it could look like through different lenses, using art as a portal to travel through time and space. My work continuously captures a certain obsession with people and their dreams, a repeated analysis of my own history with a need to recontextualize over and over, Caribbean colours to punctuate the deep future.”

JULIAN’S DREAD debuted in the prestigious Esplanade Arts and Heritage Centre at Medicine Hat, AB in January, 2024, and is now coming to Calgary, AB in May, 2024. Paintings & prints will be for sale throughout the duration of this exhibition. 

Our opening reception will have light snacks & beverages. Tickets are expected to sell out, this venue is limited capacity, please reserve your spot in advance. @jaesterling @sansfuccs