Jensen's practice engages with themes of memory, popular media, relationships to others, and queer identity. Ideas of the self and identity are central to his work, and he aims to create a space for both contemplation and connection with others. He primarily works with image-based media including photography, videography, printmaking, and intermedia sculpture.
To celebrate the launch of his work on our site (though some of you may have caught a sneak peek at Sweetpea Loves You!), we asked him some questions to get to know him better.
SP: What do you most love about the work you have created?
AJ: Love is a strong word... I tolerate my artwork.
SP: What's the one subject matter you are intimidated to explore in your practice?
I've always had an aversion to producing work that directly addresses my sexuality and sexual desires. I won't try to psychoanalyze myself here, but I would say this is connected to my experience as a queer person. In retrospect, the few examples of work that I have produced that explore sexuality has been both interesting and somewhat successful, and I think I should take that as a sign to lean into this subject matter a little more.
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SP: What historical figure do you most identify with (must be dead!)?
The Neo-Babylonian person who wrote THIS break-up letter.
SP: What is your idea of perfect happiness?
Ending capitalism.
SP: What is your greatest extravagance?
Well, I just bought a $20,000+ car as a "Christmas present to myself"...
SP: What makes you stop and look at a work of art?
I think a lot of things. Some examples of works that come to mind are either huge and immersive and catch me in a sense of visual awe, or have been deceptively simple yet immensely complex. In general, I'm most attracted to new media works, video, and sculpture.
SP: What makes you fall in love with a work of art?
I love works that tell stories, that let you live an experience. Works that are so overwhelmingly sublime and emotionally powerful that leave you in a state of awe. But also works that are simple, yet evocative and vulnerable. I think overall, this is a hard question to answer, there are so many examples of works that come to mind. Maybe I'll end with this: art is so much more than just paintings on a wall.
SP: What do you consider the most overrated subject matter in art?
Easy: consumerism.
SP: What talent would you most like to have?
Song writing and production... or voice acting.
SP: How would you most like to die?
Painfully.
Check out more of Alex's work HERE.