Local Artist Heads to New York

 Local Artist Jami Tobey is doing what most artist dream about, having her first major art exhibition in New York at the famed Amsterdam Whitney Gallery for the month of March.  Her reception opened Thursday.

 “I am really thrilled to be showing in New York City, it is a dream most artists aspire to,” Tobey explained while taking a break from packing her suitcases.

She had several shows locally and in other states, but this show in New York is definitely a milestone in the artists’ life and career.

 “My momentum is growing and the Amsterdam Whitney contacted my agent and it grew from there,” she explained. “Perhaps a bit of synchronicity helped too."

Tobey’s show will spotlight her boldest works yet. Known for painting trees and nature in a unique, swirly  style, the works that will be featured, show her stretching into new subject matter. One painting features a lighthouse perched on an ocean bluff, a departure for the artist who has been primarily associated with Southwestern landscpes.

“In the past year, I have painted and drawn a vast amount.  It has really changed and evolved, and I have big plans of subject matter that I want to work with. I really love the lighthouse, it’s my favorite piece at the moment,” she said from her studio.

Nature has always been the main theme in Tobey’s work. People often comment on the magical quality of her paintings. 

"I have several of Jami's paintings in my home. They inspire me everyday and infuse wonderful energy into my home," Tina Steinberg, a longtime Temecula resident explained.

Tobey, who is the daughter of celebrated sculptors Gene and Rebecca Tobey, grew up surrounded by art in and around Santa Fe, New Mexico.  The abundant natural world around her inspired her greatly and continues to do so to this day.

Primarly working with acrylics and metallic ink, her paintings take on a stained glass feel. Her unique interpretation of nature comes through in layers of twirls and circular patterns coupled with rich and vibrant colors.

“Jami is a gifted artist and we are delighted to represent her marvelous work,” said Amsterdam Whitney’s executive director, Ruthie Tucker. “Jami's paintings are absolutely stellar and we are so excited for her March exhibition.”

The Amsterdam Whitney is a landmark gallery featuring world-renown artists. The gallery is located in New York City's sophisticated Chelsea neighborhood.

 “I am overjoyed to reveal my newest paintings at one of New York’s most distinguished galleries,” Tobey said. “My latest work reflects an effort to push the boundaries of form, attitude and sensuality in art.”

 Several of Tobey’s landscape and tree paintings can be seen at Mount Palomar Winery right here in Temecula.