Jessica Rice
(1941-2016)
Jessica Rice was born in Antwerp, Belgium, which for centuries has been the traditional center of Flemish Masters. Jessica's first oils were painted in Central Africa, where as a young girl she was inspired by the angularity perceived in African art, and by her father's photographs. Her raw talent blossomed in the tropical surroundings. Unfettered by formal training, her images leaned towards cubist-nativism.
Leaving Africa in 1959 for San Francisco, Jesisca had already known early success when she sold her work to collectors during and exhibition in Bukavu, Kivu, Africa.
After graduating from the San Francisco Academy of Art in 1964 and awarded
the Flax Scholarship, she pursued a career in commercial art in San Francisco and New York, while continuing painting in oils for her personal satisfaction.
Arriving in Los Angeles in the early 1970's, Jessica dedicated herself entirely to painting. The diverse style of early 20th century avant-garde movement, the primitive and lush primary colors reminiscent of her childhood with strong distinctive brush strokes she creates imaginative memories steeped in the traditions of three continents. Her solid figures of heroic dimensions are wrapped in a pervasive nostalgia. Native Flemish landscapes, family gatherings, crowded estaurants, craftsmen and domestic scenes reveal a romanticized version of social realism.
For a closer look, please click on a painting below.
