Art for the Bridge between Mythology and Modernity

I curated a new exhibition at People's focusing on living mythology

Good morning! I am very excited to share information about the new exhibition I curated at People’s for this fall, and I hope you will come visit soon! Please let me know if you are interested in acquiring any of the works below.

The exhibition is a conversation between mythology and modernity, featuring J. Carino, Jesse James Thompson, Jay Miriam, and Drake Carr. When I curated this show, I wanted it to reflect the spirit of People’s, so I asked our team which artists they were following and excited to share. Their input shaped this selection and made the exhibition feel like a true reflection of our community’s voice.

Each artist brings a distinct point of view through their own approach to mythology and modernity: Carino reimagines queer figures as central to a new American folklore, Thompson draws on the imagery of ancient empires to reflect on power and collapse, Miriam distills everyday life into cinematic stills that feel timeless, and Carr blends portraiture and performance to create a theatrical world rooted in the present moment.

J. Carino @j_carino
Carino’s lush landscapes are tender and powerful, centering queer intimacy and connection. The figures are unapologetically present, reclaiming mythological space and grounding it in lived experience, which I felt was spot on for Margot’s and Emmet’s vision of People’s when we first started conversations about the space. (He is also on the cover of New American Paintings, as juried by Jerry Saltz, senior art critic for New York Magazine).

Jesse James Thompson @jessejamesthompson_
Thompson works at the intersection of myth and memory, creating blurred silhouettes and shifting figures that feel alive with motion. His paintings invite you to reflect in a world that resists certainty, where history echoes in fragments. We see this every day in People’s Instagram stories and captured moments of guests making memories.

Jay Miriam @jaymiriam
Miriam’s work draws out the quiet drama of everyday life, turning familiar moments into cinematic stills. Her brushwork is rich and layered, creating paintings that feel both intimate and timeless. I believe her works will deeply connect with guests of People’s and reflect that accessible relatability. I loved her Wet Paint in the Wild road trip article too.

Drake Carr @drake_carr
Carr’s scenes are filled with theatrical energy, celebrating queer friendship and glamour. His iconic works blur the line between performance and portraiture, capturing the beauty of community and connection that I feel perfectly encapsulates the mission at People’s.

Paid subscribers will find all available artworks below as well as details for a private evening at People’s this week where Carr will be behind the DJ booth. I look forward to seeing you in the gallery and sharing this evening together!

Jay Miriam

The Hair Pin, 2022

Oil on linen

48 x 38 inches (121.92 x 96.52 centimeters)

$12,000