Introduction for amber jean young
Table of Contents
Creative expression can be a powerful way to process grief. Writers often turn to poetry or stories, musicians compose songs, and multimedia artists like Amber Jean Young find solace through various artistic mediums. After losing her mother, Pegi Young, to ovarian cancer in 2019, Amber Jean Young turned to her passion for painting to honor her mother’s memory. This emotional journey resulted in a moving exhibition titled Pegi’s Garden, currently displayed at Bryant Street Gallery through April 30.
Amber Jean Young reminisces about her childhood at Broken Arrow Ranch, nestled near Kings Mountain. The ranch’s natural beauty, with its vast sky and towering trees, left a lasting impression on her as a child. But the patterns within her home were equally influential. “My mother was a dedicated collector of textiles like Navajo weavings, baskets, Persian rugs, and lace,” Young shared. She fondly remembers family trips to Europe, where her mother would frequently make an impromptu stop at lace shops.
From an early age, Amber Jean Young knew she was destined to be an artist. “I took art classes in preschool, and that set me on a path I’ve followed ever since,” she explained. Young attended elementary and middle school in Portola Valley before moving on to high school in San Francisco. Afterward, she explored several liberal arts colleges in the Midwest and chose Kenyon College in Ohio. Reflecting on the decision to study in the Midwest, the California native joked, “Every February, I’d wonder why I left the ranch for Ohio!”
After completing her undergraduate studies, Amber Jean Young returned to the Bay Area to pursue a graduate degree at the San Francisco Art Institute, focusing on painting. She credits her parents, Pegi Young and the legendary musician Neil Young, for their unwavering support of her artistic pursuits. “I was lucky to receive such encouragement and early recognition of my identity as an artist. Not everyone gets that,” she said.
A pivotal moment in Young’s artistic development came during her residency at the Djerassi Resident Artist Program in Woodside, not far from her childhood home. It was there that she created a series of quilts, deeply inspired by the idea of place and home. This creative project solidified her artistic focus and further developed her unique voice.
Amber Jean Young’s Pegi’s Garden is a heartfelt tribute to her mother, combining her love for textiles and painting. Through her art, she not only celebrates Pegi Young’s life but also explores themes of memory, nature, and the powerful influence of home.
This exhibition offers an intimate glimpse into Amber Jean Young’s emotional and artistic journey, ensuring that her mother’s legacy continues to inspire and touch the lives of others.
Amber Jean Young: A Journey Through Art, Grief, and Renewal
For several years, Amber Jean Young explored mixed media, fiber art, and quilting. Karen Imperial, owner of Bryant Street Gallery, visited Young’s Berkeley studio with the intent of viewing her textile creations. However, upon arrival, Imperial discovered something unexpected. “I walked into her studio, expecting to see textiles, but instead, there were these remarkable paintings,” she recalled. “Amber shared the story of her mother’s passing from ovarian cancer and explained how these paintings were her way of processing grief. I immediately loved the idea of showcasing these works and decided that a substantial portion of the proceeds would be donated to ovarian cancer research.”
Amber Jean Young expressed how her art changed after her mother’s death. “I needed to reframe my work. I couldn’t continue creating the same art as before—it wasn’t the same world anymore,” she explained.
Despite the shift to painting, her years of working with textiles still resonate in her current works. Young noted that her paintings begin with patterns and evolve through layers. Her vibrant, colorful still lifes—primarily created in acrylic—are not inspired by outdoor gardens, but rather by the indoor plants her mother lovingly cared for. One of her smaller works, titled She must have had 40 houseplants, pays homage to the lush environment her mother cultivated, which included a variety of vines, rhododendrons, and succulents. “Our home was filled with greenery. It was a beautiful space,” Amber Jean Young reminisced.
Her early work was heavily influenced by the pattern and decoration movement of the 1970s. “There wasn’t one artist in particular who inspired me. It was the philosophy of the movement—the visual reaction to the masculine art of that era,” she said.
Amber Jean Young noted that this current collection of work carries a distinctly feminine energy. The bright, nearly neon colors found in her floral paintings were specifically inspired by her mother’s later years. “My mother spent much of her life wearing black, which she found dramatic. But in her later years, she embraced bold patterns and bright colors. That shift in her style made her feel alive,” she said.
These vibrant paintings have also played a key role in helping Amber Jean Young process her own grief. “These colors helped me work through the pain of losing her. They uplifted me and, in a way, tricked my brain into feeling good again.”
Karen Imperial, reflecting on the public’s response to the artwork, shared, “The reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. Many pieces have sold, and people are genuinely moved by the beauty and story behind them. Amber Jean Young is beloved in this community, not only for her art but for her dedication to children with disabilities.”
Beyond her artistic achievements, Amber Jean Young is deeply connected to her mother’s legacy of service. She co-founded The Bridge School in Hillsborough, an institution dedicated to serving children with severe physical disabilities and communication challenges. The school’s mission was born from a personal need: both Ben, Amber’s son with musician Neil Young, and Zeke, Neil’s son from a previous marriage, have cerebral palsy. For three decades, the Bridge School Benefit Concerts, organized by Amber and Neil, raised funds for the school.
As for what’s next, Amber Jean Young hinted that her upcoming work will return to her textile roots. “I plan to continue building compositions centered around patterns, focusing on themes like the mother-child relationship,” she shared.
Amber Jean Young continues to create art that reflects her personal journey, intertwining her love for textiles, patterns, and vibrant expression. Through her evolving work, she honors her mother’s memory while continuing to push the boundaries of artistic expression.
Amber Jean Young’s Vibrant Exhibition, “Pegi’s Garden,” Now Open
Amber Jean Young is showcasing her latest exhibition, Pegi’s Garden, an artistic celebration of bright colors and vivid landscapes. The exhibit, which is currently on display at Bryant Street Gallery in Palo Alto, reflects Young’s unique creative vision and emotional connection to her work.
Speaking about the inspiration behind the exhibit, Amber Jean Young shared, “I believe my mother would have been incredibly pleased with this collection — I’m certain she would have loved it.” Known for her appreciation of bold, bright colors, the collection pays homage to her mother’s artistic influence and love of nature.
Pegi’s Garden will be open to visitors through April 30 at the Bryant Street Gallery, located at 532 Bryant St., Palo Alto. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience Amber Jean Young’s captivating artwork in this extraordinary exhibition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is Amber Jean Young?
Amber Jean Young is a contemporary artist known for her vibrant use of colors and abstract designs. Her work is often inspired by personal experiences, emotional connections, and her love of nature. She is currently showcasing her latest exhibition, Pegi’s Garden.
What is the inspiration behind “Pegi’s Garden”?
The exhibition Pegi’s Garden is inspired by Amber Jean Young’s mother, Pegi Young. The collection reflects her mother’s love for bright colors and the natural beauty of gardens, serving as a tribute to Pegi’s creative spirit and influence.
Where can I view “Pegi’s Garden”?
You can visit Pegi’s Garden at the Bryant Street Gallery, located at 532 Bryant St., Palo Alto. The exhibition runs until April 30, so be sure to stop by before it closes.
How long will the exhibition be available?
The exhibition will be on display through April 30, giving visitors ample time to enjoy Amber Jean Young’s work in person.
Is there an entry fee for the exhibition?
Typically, Bryant Street Gallery exhibitions are free to the public, but it’s always a good idea to check with the gallery directly for any special events or ticketed occasions.
Can I purchase Amber Jean Young’s artwork from this exhibition?
Yes, Amber Jean Young’s artwork from Pegi’s Garden is available for purchase through the Bryant Street Gallery. Contact the gallery directly for more information on purchasing a piece from the collection.
Final Words
Amber Jean Young’s Pegi’s Garden is a must-see exhibition for art lovers and enthusiasts of bold, expressive designs. The exhibition not only highlights her exceptional talent but also pays a beautiful tribute to her mother’s legacy. If you appreciate vibrant colors and meaningful artistry, make sure to visit the Bryant Street Gallery before the exhibition ends on April 30. Experience firsthand the brilliant and emotive works of Amber Jean Young, an artist who continues to captivate audiences with her unique approach to modern art.
You can see latest news and updates at: Secret Class
