Jaq Chartier's series is an ongoing exploration of accidents, trials and investigations. Known for creating abstract paintings with actual meaning, Chartier’s work is a blend of science and technology. Often referred to as DNA samples, her paintings are tests and chemical reactions between oils, acrylics and commercial sealants. Over the years, Chartier has kept cataloging the experiments. The earlier work was sometimes inscribed with the records of the process directly onto the surface of the piece; time of exposure, name of oils and sealants used. Stains emerge from under the coating revealing to the naked eyes hues of colors otherwise impossible to discern or even imagine. The paintings are let to settle into their final phase and then to dry for several months. For this newer series, called Sun Tests, the pieces are carefully exposed to the sun for some period of time, letting chance take its course. Giving form to tone, each dot within Chartier's work takes on its own life, as randomness resides within effect. Her interest in scientific depictions does not signify her own repetition of it, but rather a curiosity to move painting beyond it. Her work brings art back to one of its origins, as the articulation of biological-looking forms appeals to the organic nature of feeling. She works and lives in Seattle.