Jennifer York Presents Historical Fiction This July at the Saul Alexander Gallery

(Logo Courtesy of the Charleston County Public Library)

Jennifer York, the 2024 Griffith-Reyburn Lowcountry Artist of the Year, presents Historical Fiction, a solo exhibition on view throughout July at the Saul Alexander Gallery in downtown Charleston. The show features 16 original works, including travel sketchbooks, carousel pop-up books, Tyvek paper cuts, and dioramas built into antique mirrors and vintage suitcases. Many of the pieces are inspired by Civil War-era daguerreotypes and early American portrait photography, particularly from the archives of the Charleston Museum. That interest in historic imagery parallels an earlier influence: hearing The Chronicles of Narnia read aloud by her fourth grade teacher.

“I felt transported,” York says. Likewise, her work uses storytelling and illustration to transport the viewer into another world. At the heart of the exhibition is May River Moonrise, a new work shown in Charleston for the first time. The 48 x 48-inch Tyvek piece is folded and meticulously hand-cut into a dizzying symmetrical repeat — much like a giant paper snowflake. Inspired by the May River Chapel at Palmetto Bluff, it incorporates crescent moons and palmetto trees from the South Carolina state flag.

Two garments are also on view, bringing York’s sculptural approach into fashion. Liberty Dress is a hand-stitched gown made from York’s retired porch flag and silk — an expression of reclaimed patriotism, showing care and intention in contrast to the American flag being printed on disposable or novelty garments. A pullover beekeeping blouse from her design line, Jeometry Beewear™, reflects a different aim: functional, sustainable protection made specifically for women beekeepers. One provokes, the other protects. Historical Fiction is free and open to the public.

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