J Rowen O’Dwyer (they/he) is an interdisciplinary artist currently living and working in the Boston area. Their research focuses on generational queer histories of community organizing and embodiment practices in kink and leather communities. His paintings situate young queers within this rich history, shining a light on the human elements of connection and the healing, vulnerable act of seeing and being seen. Creating real spaces for liberation and connection is the foundation for O’Dwyer’s practice. At heart of his work is the time he spends in service to this community through event organizing, documenting moments, and forming lasting bonds and entanglements with others. They received their M.F.A. from the School of the Museum of Fine Arts and their B.A. in studio art from Agnes Scott College.

J Rowen O’Dwyer: DEVOTIONS curated by Lillian O’Dwyer will be on view beginning August 31, 2024 with an opening reception on September 6, 2024 in the Mills Gallery. DEVOTIONS, to a dirty queer home  is a collection of paintings, objects, and zines from J Rowen O’Dwyer intertwining queer intimacy and the domestic realm.