Before being hospitalized for a week and half, I was deprived of sleep, imbibing on weed and alcohol, vibrating at a higher frequency, and experiencing an unending creative outburst. “RUSH” documents my journey from madness into clarity through a range of emotions: pain and anguish, exuberance and euphoria- all felt and expressed intensely over the course of a three week period in Summer 2020.

This being my first solo exhibition, I am so honored to be able to bring my art to the public eye this April 19-21 at Uncommonly Studio in Ridgewood. Since my manic episode, hospitalization, and Bipolar diagnosis during the height of the pandemic, I have yearned to welcome people into my brain through my drawings, video experiments, and synesthetic improvisational music.

By attending this, you will actively engage in the work of helping people understand themselves through witnessing my own process of understanding. Thank you for your support!

Bio:

Jake Wassermann (he/they) is a musician, artist, and experiential educator. Jake has always believed in the power of being an open book. One can only learn from an open book, so Jake strives to share his story of mental health, queer identity, and spiritual awakening with the world.

With gratitude, Jake is creating this installation at Uncommonly Studio in Ridgewood. Uncommonly’s mission is to support local artists and help bring their visions to life, and Jake is so appreciative of Uncommonly’s belief in the power of sharing one’s story.