Jessica Hess‘s paintings of time-worn structures sense patched together like memories, carrying indications of past citizens and stages. The artist’s continuing dialogue with “survey of derelict spaces void of human existence,” as explained in one announcement, takes a more lively turn in these buildings evolve. Although not one of those paintings features people, all take on a ghostly character, as rendered by Hess.

“Hess’ new job develops the story put forth by her previous exhibition ‘More Is More’ by detailing the constant change in those vacated structures,” a statement states. “Graffiti saturated buildings are buffed over; abandoned houses are boarded up and repainted. These dark moments provoke contemplation of the nature of our built environments.”

See more of the painter’s work below.