Artist Talk: Julian V. L. Gaines

Join us for a thought-provoking talk with acclaimed artist Julian V.L. Gaines. Based in Portland, Oregon, Gaines is a conceptual, multidisciplinary, installation artist and painter whose work has been exhibited nationwide and has appeared in such publications as The New York Times, New York Magazine, and The New Yorker. Gaines’ work has also been seen as part of notable partnerships with major commercial brands, including Nike, NFL, Jordan, Maker’s Mark, McDonald’s, Levi Strauss & Co., and more. Learn about his artistic practice and personal experience designing shoes as part of the “Game Worn” campaign in collaboration with Nike Sportwear.

This artist talk is inspired by Sarasota Art Museum’s exhibition Future Now: Virtual Sneakers to Cutting Edge Kicks, on view now through May 4, 2025.

Program will be held in the Sarasota High School Alumni Auditorium at SAM.

About Julian Gaines

Julian Gaines (b.1991) is a conceptual, multidisciplinary, installation artist and painter native to Chicago, Illinois but now based outside of Portland, Oregon. His work has appeared in The New York Times, New York Magazine, and The New Yorker, and led to notable brand partnerships with Nike, NFL, Jordan Brand, Maker’s Mark, McDonald’s, Jet Life Recordings, Kiwi, Levi Strauss & Co. and more.

Pulling from a multitude of references ranging from life in Chicago and Oregon, to music and books he is currently reading, Gaines’ artistic practice repaints history in oil and house paint. His works have progressed to a larger scale of depth and social commentary, intending to be both critical and constructive.

Gaines is represented by Russo Lee Gallery in Portland, Oregon and Cristin Tierney Gallery in New York City.

Host or Publisher Sarasota Art Museum