Mike Jacobs’s “Portsmouth and Other Delights” art exhibition offers a dynamic exploration of Portsmouth’s nautical heritage and the creativity of music and art, brought to life through his bold, unconventional artistry. On display November 15, 2024-January 17, 2025 at PMAC, “Portsmouth and Other Delights” showcases Jacobs’ distinct self-taught style, which combines colored pencils, gel pens, and acrylic markers, applied on black cotton boards and wood-cradled panels. The rich, dark backdrops intensify the vibrant, spontaneous compositions that seem to leap from the surface.
Jacobs’ creative process balances both intention and improvisation. He starts with a single line and lets the artwork evolve, allowing his instincts to guide the flow of each piece. As Jacobs explains, “Once a piece is hatched, it becomes. Until I conclude it’s done.”
Inspired by 20th-century visual art pioneers, Jacobs transcends conventional categorization, bringing forth what has been described as “urban, jazzy, non-drug-induced psychedelic mayhem.” His unique visual language evokes comparisons to the French figuration libre movement, yet remains unmistakably his own.
“Portsmouth and Other Delights” is a vibrant tribute to the essence of Portsmouth, celebrating its artistic vitality, maritime legacy, and the indomitable creativity that defines its cultural landscape.
In addition to general gallery hours, PMAC will host two exhibit-related community events:
- View the exhibition at PMAC’s Haas Family Gallery. Gallery open hours: Mondays 12-5pm, Tuesday-Thursday by appointment, Fridays 12:30-7pm, Saturdays 9am-3pm. See Visitor Info here.
- Celebrate the exhibition’s opening with a reception on November 15, 2024. Wine and light snacks provided. 5:30-6:30pm, PMAC.
- Learn more about Jacobs’ artistic process and path during a West End Master Series artist discussion on Friday, January 17. 5:30-6:30pm, PMAC.
About Artist Mike Jacobs
Born and raised in New York City, Mike Jacobs started drawing in his early 20’s when he was offered a technical drawing pen; it felt so right in his hand that the black inked line took on a life of its own. While Mike tried on several occasions to take art classes, his strong-willed belief in his approach didn’t make him the ideal student. He dropped out and continued to create drawings that expressed his vision, eventually learning to paint in vibrant color.
Mike has exhibited in many shows, primarily in and around NYC. He recently returned from a stint as an artist-in-residence at the Galerie Plurielle in Sete, France, his representative in the EU.
Connect with Mike at his website mikejacobsart.com or on Instagram @mikejacobsart.
Media Contact and Questions
For questions about PMAC’s exhibit of Mike Jacobs’ “Portsmouth and Other Delights” and related events, please contact: Melissa Schultz, PMAC Director of Marketing, at melissa.schultz@pmaconline.org.
