Jillian Appelbaum

My work lives at the intersection of maximalism and memory. Influenced by the iconic visual languages of Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein, and shaped by the soulful rhythms of Motown and 1960s nostalgia, I create vibrant, layered compositions that celebrate cultural resonance and personal history. I describe my aesthetic as “maximalist kitsch” — bold, immersive, and unapologetically colorful. Growing up in Texas within the framework of my Eastern roots, I was surrounded by contrasts: saturated Southern skies, rich familial traditions, and the constant soundtrack of soul music playing through our home. Those early sensory experiences continue to inform my visual language. My work pulls from that tapestry of influences, merging abstract forms, pop sensibilities, and collage to construct narratives that feel both playful and introspective. Collage, for me, is storytelling. With a background in Radio, Film, and Television, I approach composition cinematically — cutting, layering, and reassembling fragments into cohesive emotional arcs. Just as film editing shapes meaning through juxtaposition, my visual work relies on the tension and harmony between disparate elements. Traditional and contemporary techniques converge to create immersive pieces that invite the viewer into a dialogue. Although I began collaging only two years ago, the medium quickly became central to my practice. As a resident artist at Art Anomaly Studio in Farmer’s Branch and a recent participant in a curated group exhibition, I continue to deepen my engagement with the contemporary art community. My involvement with the Deep Ellum Art Fair’s vendor committee has further connected me to diverse audiences, allowing my work to exist not only within gallery walls but within vibrant public spaces. At its core, my work seeks to evoke wonder and introspection. I aim to create pieces that capture the eye while engaging the spirit — works that encourage viewers to explore their own memories, identities, and inner landscapes. Through continued evolution and experimentation, I hope to contribute meaningfully to the contemporary art dialogue and inspire others to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and creative expression. — Jillian Appelbaum @thiscenturymoderntx