A selection of recent paintings by Portland, Oregon-based artist Josh Stover. Originally from St. Petersburg, Florida, Stover has an educational background in ceramics, though he found his way to painting after moving to Portland in 2015. Started while spending lots of time at home during the height of the pandemic, his recent series of abstracted still life scenes are made up of objects he has collected. “These items have personal meaning to me, and some are travel souvenirs, gifts from friends, and family heirlooms,” he explains. “I see these paintings as a way to stay connected to friends, family, travels, and past memories at a time when I was pretty isolated. I hope the paintings give viewers a sense of nostalgia and the relationship between the items allows people to interpret a narrative that has personal meaning to them.”

In addition to his personal art practice, Stover is co-owner of Variety Shop, a sign painting, mural and design company in Portland. See more of his work below!