Stay Clear Of Ditches
2023
New Orleans, Louisiana
Artworks shown are selected from works submitted by the artist in their grant or residency application. All works are copyright of the artist or artist’s estate.
Jacob Reptile, a Fiber Art BFA graduate from the Kansas City Art Institute, returned to New Orleans with a passion for textile, wearable, and green art. Establishing the Aquarium Gallery and Studios in the Bywater district, he fostered community and collaboration until a 2016 fire nearly destroyed it. Undeterred, he rallied support, rebuilding and creating The Flaming Flagettes performance group. Today, the gallery stands as a testament to his resilience, boasting 11 studios, a gallery, and an artist residency. Jacob's art, inspired by nature, aims to evoke joy while highlighting environmental issues. Through fiber art, he sparks dialogue and fosters change, blending creativity with advocacy. Jacob Reptile's journey exemplifies the transformative power of art, resilience, and community, inspiring others to embrace creativity and work towards a more sustainable future.
Joan Mitchell Center Residency, 2025
Using recycled materials, I craft sculptural, fantastical soft sculptures that breathe life into my imagination. Some plants compel me to recreate them, while certain fabrics demand to be transformed into specific creatures.”