Art serves as a profound medium of expression for many, and for Jasmine Raskas, it is a canvas for revealing the unseen worlds of nature and imagination. On Fri., Sept. 6, the Angad Arts Hotel will unveil “Symbiosis,” a captivating cross-continental art exhibit. This exhibition not only highlights Raskas’ latest artistic endeavors but also celebrates a significant phase in her evolving career, which continues to enchant and connect with audiences both locally and internationally.
Jasmine Raskas: A journey of artistic influence
First introduced to readers by the Jewish Light in 2018, Raskas has since flourished in her artistic journey, regularly captivating the St. Louis community with her vibrant, thought-provoking works. Her current exhibit, “Symbiosis,” crafted in collaboration with Lima-based artist Daniela Marin, showcases a series of pieces inspired by cellular biology and the intricate systems within nature that influence growth and structure.
Raskas’ work invites viewers into a quasi-mystical experience, blending the familiar with the fantastical. “I am drawn to creating otherworldly, imaginary environments that evoke a sense of wonder and familiarity,” explains Raskas. The exhibit promises to be a visually stunning exploration of the interconnectedness of life, viewed through the lens of art.
“The works in this exhibit are heavily inspired by cell biology and the intricate systems within nature that govern growth and structure,” Raskas explains. “I’m also drawn to creating otherworldly, imaginary environments that evoke a sense of wonder, yet still feel strangely familiar.”
Jasmine Raskas and her cross-continental collaboration
“Symbiosis,” the upcoming exhibit at Angad Arts Hotel, is a collaborative effort between Raskas and Daniela Marin, an artist from Lima, Peru. The two artists, who have never met in person, spent months working across continents to bring this exhibit to life.
“The connection between our work was so strong that it felt as though we had known each other for a long time,” said Raskas. Through the exchange of images, referencing each other’s past work and video chats from their respective studios, they created their artistic vision.
Themes of nature and biology
Raskas and Marin are inspired by nature, especially natural shapes and patterns found everywhere, no matter the place.
“The natural patterns we work with, found across various scales in the human experience, serve as a common language that ties our work together,” said Raskas. “Each piece is like a window or portal to another dimension. They’re designed to inspire reflection on our connection to the environments and ecosystems we call home.”
How to view the art of “Symbiosis”
Raskas encourages viewers to engage with the exhibit playfully and with curiosity.
“I would invite the audience to imagine what it would be like to live inside one of these paintings,” she suggested. “What emotions would emerge? How would you interact with the creatures and ecosystems present?”
Raskas hopes that new viewers feel a sense of togetherness and a strong link to the common things that connect everyone.
Jasimine Raskas in the “Gallery of Doors”
In addition to “Symbiosis,” Raskas’ work will also be featured in the Angad Arts Hotel’s permanent “Gallery of Doors” installation.
Her new project, “Intergalactic Ecosystems,” builds on her earlier immersive work, blending organic and fantastical elements into a narrative of exploration.
“Each secret ‘door’ introduces an otherworldly setting where these entities interact with their surroundings in ways that reflect broader themes of growth and transformation,” she explained.
The physical space of the hotel significantly influenced the design of the installation.
“The varying shapes and sizes of the doors created opportunities to make some entrances feel more like cave-like enclosures, while others act as portals to different realms,” said Raskas.
For those interested in attending, the exhibit will be open through November at the Angad Arts Hotel, with a special Curated Cocktails Art Discussion taking place on Mon., Sept. 9. from 5 to 9 p.m.
