Elisa Jensen Honors Painter Jake Berthot's Defiant Individualism and Artistic Evolution
On December 30, 2014, Jake Berthot, a painter, passed away at the age of 75. Elisa Jensen, an artist, pays tribute to his contributions, pointing out his transition in the early 1990s from abstract urban scenes in New York City to nature-themed pieces in Accord, Catskills. While this evolution disappointed some admirers, Berthot had previously achieved acclaim, including honors at the Venice Biennale. Jensen remembers experiencing the emotional intensity of Berthot's evocative works at Betty Cuningham Gallery last year. He prioritized painting over theoretical concepts, famously stating, "I choose to be free." A memorial is planned for Betty Cuningham's new venue on Rivington Street. Jensen also reflects on their encounter two years prior and Berthot's recent studio visit with Zachary Keeting and Christopher Joy. His artistic legacy remains impactful.
Key facts
- Jake Berthot died on December 30, 2014
- Elisa Jensen wrote a personal tribute to Berthot
- Berthot moved from New York City to Accord, New York in the early 1990s
- His work shifted from abstract urban paintings to pieces inspired by Catskills woodlands
- Berthot achieved international acclaim, including at the Venice Biennale
- A memorial will be held at Betty Cuningham's new Rivington Street space
- Berthot stated "I choose to be free" in a studio visit with Zachary Keeting and Christopher Joy
- He described the Catskills woods as uniquely dark and in constant flux in an interview with Jennifer Samet
Entities
Artists
- Jake Berthot
- Elisa Jensen
- Ruth Miller
- Zachary Keeting
- Christopher Joy
- Jennifer Samet
Institutions
- Betty Cuningham Gallery
- Lohin Geduld Gallery
- Venice Biennale
- Gorky's Granddaughter
Locations
- New York City
- Chelsea
- Rivington Street
- 25th Street
- Accord
- New York
- Catskills
- United States