Whitney Oldenburg: left behind
Edited by Amber Sesnick, Director of Communications, Arts UNF Photos by Elisabeth Bernstein
A dynamic emerging sculptor who grew up here in Jacksonville but is now working out of New York, Whitney Oldenburg has cultivated a deeply reflective practice examining the relationships we build with everyday items. Her exhibition “Whitney Oldenburg: left behind” is on view through April 19 at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Jacksonville. MOCA’s team had the pleasure of speaking with Oldenburg, the 2025 recipient of the Eden Arts Foundation’s Now Award, about her creative practice.
MOCA: When did you decide you wanted to be an artist, and what has that journey looked like?
Whitney Oldenburg: I have been making things for as long as I can remember. I was that kid who loved to color and draw for hours. In college, I had a professor who told me to try not to be an artist. I got a job, and after each year I slowly began to realize I had oriented my life in a way that would protect my art making—by living in not-so-great apartments or spending a large portion on art materials. I realized it was more than just something I loved to do. The journey has been a lot harder than I anticipated, but I have learned so much along the way. I feel very lucky to have something that I am truly passionate about.
MOCA: How does it feel to have your work exhibited in your hometown?
Oldenburg: It feels completely surreal. I never thought I would have such a large exhibition here, and I feel very lucky and grateful for the opportunity. There are many phenomenal artists that are never given the chance to have a solo show, let alone a show this large in a museum. It is also a tremendous learning opportunity to see all my work together in one space, many of which I have never exhibited before. I am also excited that my entire family will be able to see it, including my nieces and nephews.
