E. E. Ikeler American, b. 1986

E.E. Ikeler’s paintings exist as pathways to knowledge that appeal to the senses. Their mixed media works create an initial read that is both colorful and intriguing. Initially organized by a grid, the images are integrated into twisted patterns that present pieces of information that are then revealed through language. The use of the grid articulates the underlying structure of the two-dimensional realm. They make their grids by hand, using nets and other materials to imperfectly cast tiles that ultimately produce their own communication technology. Correspondingly, the scripted messages are intended to fill the void of communication that abstract painting leaves behind. By forging a relationship between painting and language, Ikeler hopes to find a universality that one or the other cannot attain on its own. “To comprehend, to fathom, to consider: that is the goal. The need to know as a desire in its own right is the driving force,” Ikeler writes. Their work brings cohesion to daily conundrums, fragmenting experience and perspective within the process. 

E.E. Ikeler (b. 1986) studied fine arts in undergrad and received a BFA from The Cooper Union in 2008. Following undergrad they obtained their MFA from Yale School of Art in 2016. Ikeler has been shown in exhibitions across the United States and abroad, including three solo exhibitions at Hemphill Fine Arts in Washington, D.C.. They have additionally been featured at Jeff Bailey Gallery in Hudson, NY, Mulherin in Toronto, Canada, and Kent Place in Summit, NJ, Essex Flowers in New York, NY, EFA Project Space in New York, NY Abrons Art Center in New York, New York and Yve Yang Gallery in Boston, MA. 

They are the recipient of a Leroy Neiman Foundation Summer Fellowship at Ox-bow School of Art (2016), a Yale FLAGS Award (2015), a Helen Watson Winternitz Award and a Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library Research Fellowship (2015). They currently live and work in Brooklyn, NY.