Ross + Kramer is pleased to present Of Dust and Breath, a solo exhibition of new work by Los Angeles based artist Devon DeJardin. Of Dust and Breath, on view May 08–June 28, 2025 in New York, marks DeJardin’s first solo exhibition with Ross + Kramer. DeJardin’s study of world religion and spiritual traditions informs much of his artistic practice. With Of Dust and Breath, the artist turns his focus toward beginnings, reflecting on concepts of creation, divine intention, and human transgression. The exhibition’s title refers to the biblical notion that humanity was formed from the dust (or clay) of the earth and given life through the breath of spirit.
Central to his paintings are abstract, anthropomorphic figures which DeJardin terms “Guardians” that stand as non-theological symbols of protection. Architectural in their dimensionality and form, DeJardin’s Guardian figures are composed of solid geometric shapes reminiscent of early Analytical Cubism. The Guardians gaze is often directly toward the viewer, imparting a sense of profoundly benevolent confrontation. These figures seem to offer up a path of communication between themselves and the viewer, and in doing so, encourage deep introspection. His Guardian figures describe a geometric order that does not exist as a singular form of protective symbolism but reaches to be understood across ideologies, regardless of one’s personal belief system.
In this body of work, DeJardin’s Guardians are seen embedded within sprawling, ethereal landscapes, pointing to the duality of human existence—being at once earthly and divine, fragile yet immutable. The artist’s landscapes, with their controlled palette and particular emphasis on atmosphere, are evocative of the enigmatic landscapes of 17th century Dutch Golden Age painters such as Aelbert Cuyp, Jan Both, and Aert van der Neer. Much like these old masters, DeJardin integrates symbolic qualities to reflect on moral and religious themes that transcend time. Redolent of this propensity for covert meanings, the Guardian figures in these works appear concealed within the paintings—whether shrouded in vegetation or tucked away within vast scenery—encouraging the viewer’s eye to wander, actively seeking out an interaction with these figures.