(Courtesy of Kaplen JCC) The Kaplen JCC on the Palisades Waltuch Art Gallery, located at 411 E. Clinton Avenue in Tenafly, presents “Conversations with Myself,” an exhibition of stirring photographs by Jo Ann Chaus, who brings a penetrating emotional depth to her subjects. The show will be on display through September 30, with a meet the artist reception on Thursday, September 26, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Based in New York, Jo Ann has a background in fashion and creates images that make use of layered color that is provocative, ambiguous and psychological in nature. In 2017, she self-published a monograph, “Sweetie & Hansom,” which explores her relationship with her family, the premature death of her younger brother and the lasting impact of that sudden loss. She is currently editing a second monograph project that explores her identity as a girl, a child and an adult, as well as a woman, wife and mother – questioning the demands and expectations imposed on women of her generation. Jo Ann is an alumnus of two one-year programs at The International Center of Photography (ICP) in New York (2013 and 2017).

“The images in this exhibit reference female characters from my past, both known and unknown,” said Chaus. “They serve as memoires, both personal and collective. My intention is to create a metaphorical mental bridge between them and me, then and now and to express the struggles, the searching, the heaviness and the responsibilities that come with being an adult, a mother, a wife, a daughter, a woman.”

The Waltuch Art Gallery is a community space that exhibits thematically Jewish artwork, or art produced by Jewish artists. All gallery exhibits and receptions are free and open to the community, where JCC membership is not required. Gallery hours are Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Friday and Sunday from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (in winter); closed Saturday and Jewish holidays.

For more information on gallery exhibitions, contact Nina Bachrach at 201-408-1406 or [email protected].