(b. Reston, VA 1990, lives Los Angeles) shares an intimate glimpse into his world through the personal dwellings of friends and acquaintances, including people who feel marginalized. In times like these, Pemberton sees the seemingly simple act of taking up space as a form of activism. Pemberton’s work challenges stereotypes by depicting his subjects as everyday people doing everyday things. Materials like drywall mud, cork and bamboo are used alongside acrylic paint and photography to depict mundane activities; eating, visiting, resting, drinking coffee, lounging. Pemberton uses images of himself in several of the pieces and invites us to see ourselves in the work as well. He reminds us what a privilege it is to fit in and to feel a sense of belonging. To feel ordinary is a luxury. Pemberton received his BFA from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2012. He has completed residencies at The Pittsburgh Glass Center (PA), Bruket (Bodø, NO), as well as a Core Fellowship at the Penland School of Crafts (NC). He currently resides in Los Angeles, California where he splits his time between a production glass blowing job, his painting practice, and outreach work with Crafting the Future.
