Friday, June 1, 2012

Making A Difference One Mural At A Time



Mural painting project at P:EAR

Clutching his traditional medicine bag, Rodolfo Serna embraces the day, like many days, with fervent prayers and a grateful heart.

It all started with a loss.  A fine arts student from Portland State, lost the interest in working as a solitary artist for reasons that kept bringing all the attention back on him.  Not feeling satisfied with this introspective mind-frame, Serna changed gears.  He now collaborates as a muralist, not with fellow practicing artists, but with youth in the Portland metro area.  Serna sees a gift of creativity in the minds of children.  Just as Pablo Picasso quoted, “All children are artists.  The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.”

Sunny Side Elementary kick-Off session
Serna works with Right Brain Initiative (RBI), a non-profit organization placing willing artists in Portland's public schools to administrate creative projects.  Back in 1992, measure 5 did a pretty good job of cutting funds for the arts programs in the school system.  Although it is a huge undertaking to bring art education back into schools, Right Brain's innovative efforts are making a difference.

Rodolfo Serna at Sunny Side Elementary.









Serna prays for guidance and a humble heart.  It is kick-off day and the children await his arrival.  This day is important to Serna as it marks the beginning of a new collaboration; the birth of ideas.  The auditorium at Sunnyside Elementary bustles with gabbing students and anticipation.  Their ears perk at the sound echoing in from the hallway. “Ba-bum...ba-bum-bum...ba-bum...ba-bum-bum...”  The steady pounding of a Native American drum beats in perfect time, joined by a song.  A song that has been sung for centuries, passed down from the native tradition.  Serna's voice pours into the room, all eyes on him, as he embraces these children with an ancient melody.

Briana Linden, implementation coordinator at RBI, described how the decision to become a teaching artist really takes a special person. “Rodolfo has it,” she explained, “It is natural for him, he is able to listen to the students and respect them.”

Linden broke down the application process.  She said that they usually get around 40 letters of interest, and at least half will go on to fill out a formal application.  In the end, less than five artists will be accepted. This is partly due to a competitive nature of the program; however, a portion of artists interested back out after realizing the adaptability required to teach students of all ages across the district.  It takes artists like Rodolfo Serna, who are willing to step away from the singular artist visage and work with others symbiotically.

“This job is not easy.” Serna discloses, “Some days I don't even get paid.  Today, I woke up with a cramped neck and I am fighting a cold.” Still full of enthusiasm and positive energy, an onlooker would have never noticed that Serna was feeling under the weather.  “These kids do that for me.” Serna credits, “They give me the energy I need.”

Serna's Black hair is usually pulled back into a traditional braid and paint stains embellish much of his wardrobe.  He often wears glasses and a few tattoos decorate his arm.  The students feel at ease with Serna.  He has a way of connecting with them and finding equal ground.

Serna's student "lead murals" are displayed on the interior and exterior walls of school buildings.  He meets with the kids weekly for art sessions, where they paint together.  He incorporates a pie chart analysis of students ideas for a mural in a percentage format.  If 25 students wanted a lion and five students envisioned a star in the picture, then Serna would have a center point lion and a glimmering star off in the corner.  This method helps to compile every contribution from every child into one concept.  Linden from Right Brain reflected that “mural art has been powerful for the schools because it is about a community process.  Many schools feel disconnected as a community.  It is impacting for students to be a part of something that will be displayed on their walls.”

Whitman Elementary mural project
During an art session with Serna, a young 8th grade student from King Middle School  expressed, “I've never done anything like this before and nobody has ever taken the time before. People have come into our school to paint murals and they just do it themselves. I think, 
it's our walls so it should be our art...”
King Middle School project


A child was sick with the flu and she dragged herself into school when she should have been at home in bed.  The principal of this Portland school asked her, “Why are you here, you should be at home?”  She told him, “I can't stay home...Today is Right Brain day!”

Carissa Martus, a music teacher from Quatama Elementary shared from her experience.  She explained when children expressed their future career dreams, they would rarely mention artist.  “With artists like Rodolfo coming to our schools to work with the children, the kids are becoming inspired by these men and women.  Now, we often hear students envisioning themselves as an artist...to many students being an artist was never an option before.”

Although native to Chicago, Serna has never let go of his roots extending deep into the soil of Mexico.  When he collaborates as an artist he integrates his own life story into his work, as well as larger issues of Native American identity; while also wrapping each student's identity into a mural.  By sharing elements of his Aztec heritage this deepens the program with a rich cultural education. 

Daily, Serna seeks humility; in the native tradition he is considered a helper.  His desire is to live life as “a vessel doing good” for others.  The children he works with are “pure little spirits”.  Inspired by these young souls, Serna steps away from the job each day and strives to live more like the children, pure in spirit and mind.
A group at P:ear collaborating creatively together

Serna also works with P:ear a non-profit involved with mentoring marginal youth.  In addition he is on the board for a few grassroots organizations, including Medicine Bear and Mexica Tiahui.  Serna hopes to bring these two indigenous groups together to run as one non-profit.

After asking Serna why he chose this work he said, “If there was a tsunami that wiped out civilization as we know it, then maybe I would be a hunter-gatherer.  But living life right now in today's world, I am following my path and doing what I was meant to do.” Just as the ancient Aztecs created hieroglyphics on stone walls, Serna helps to bring beauty to the concrete walls in the jungle of Portland, Oregon.

The steady beat of the drum rolls onward, this is the beat that calls Rodolfo each day... the beat that matches the pounding of his heart.  Serna's work as a muralist is personal in every degree. He strives to plant seeds for the joy of expression and the love of art in every child he meets. Thank you to those that care and to those that make a difference, we need more Rodolfo Serna's in this world.


For more information and images of Rodolfo's past mural collaborations please visit his website: www.rudyserna.com

You can also find more information at Right Brain Initiative and P:ear.


- Written by ArtVigilante: Jenny Rose











Video created by Nicholas Rudy
This is a piece I did profiling a local Native American artist who mentors and works with homeless and at-risk youth in the Portland metro area. It was a pleasure to meet him and attempt to capture the essence of his work. " - Nicholas Rudy



Rodolfo Serna
Group mural from Quatama Elementary
Student painting on group mural at King Middle School.

King Middle School mural project.

Luis, a volunteer at P:ear, is currently being mentored by Serna.
He also takes part in some of the projects.



Quatama Elementary group mural


Saturday, April 7, 2012

Pancakes and Booze: PDX Eat Your Heart Out


Pancakes and Booze Art Show. Photo by FosterPhotoGraphix

L.A.'s Pancakes and Booze Art Show made its way for the first time to Portland, Oregon last Friday March, 30th.  This event creates an out of the box collaborative art expose giving fresh underground and emerging artists an opportunity to share their work.
$5 dollar door charge given to "Wonder Woman"
          Tom Kirlin, founder of the Pancakes and Booze Art Show, created this captivating gathering in L.A. about 4 years ago.  Since that time it has grown dramatically and he now travels bringing the exhibition to different locations around the United States. He has hosted the event in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Denver, Nashville, Minneapolis, Atlanta, Phoenix, Dallas and now Portland, Oregon.  Kirlin plans to bring the show back to Portland this August and then on-going every 3 to 4 months. 
            Kirlin's inspiration for this show was to create an art event reflecting an atmosphere that stands apart from a typical art gallery showing.  Kirlin is often asked, “why the pancakes?”  He simply answers, “why not.”  The food fair offered,  pancakes and booze, contrasts significantly from the usual wine and cheese selection found at a traditional art show. The pancakes not only make a social statement but are also responsible for enticing many curious guests to these parties.  In fact, the show in Portland brought a successful first event attendance of around 700 people.   
            The Portland P&B show made it's debut at the Urban Studio located in the hip and happening Pearl District.  Guests poured in from a growing line forming outside the door from Davis Street.  As patrons entered the large and open studio, pumping rhythmic music was orchestrated by the DJ, welcoming everyone to relax and soak-in the diverse visual art environment.  Beer and cocktails were served, as well as all you can eat pancakes slathered in syrup, chocolate and fresh fruit.  Guests wandered and mingled throughout the space exploring the vivid art pieces covering the walls from top to bottom.  In addition, artists came with their brushes in hand creating on the spot masterpieces.  The optical stimulation of expressive artistic statements produced a feast for the eyes. 
           
Fine Artist Christopher Kelleher


Christopher Kelleher from Gallery CK performed a live painting at the show.

           Portlanders welcomed this show to their local art scene, and many of the contributing artists claim that PDX has been in need of something like this for a long time.  There are countless unknown artists constructing quality visual art that often gets overlooked in a big city like Portland.  Kirlin feels that art should not be exclusive to high brow events and elite sub-cultures in society.  Kirlin wants this event to be inviting and he feels motivated to create an accessible platform for every-day artists to share their unseen work to the communities around them.
 The P&B event in Portland displayed over 75 local artisans work.  The art varied in style; something was there for every palette.  Fresh Ghost Art, a Portland painter, shared his contrasting black and white geometric masterpieces.  Artist Sandy Peraza presented her work which combines an eclectic mix of graffiti, nature, and child hood nostalgia, using her common color scheme of pink and black.  Other creative individuals whom took part in the show included graphic image designer Chad Rea founder of Ecopop Helvis Smith presented her vibrant in color work made from recycled paint;  fine artist Christopher Kelleher with his masterstrokes both detailed and thought provoking and also myself, Jenny Rose, contributed some of my own abstract collection from my "Birth of the Voice" series.  An ongoing list of participating artists, artwork, and comments can be found at the March events page from last Friday's show: https://www.facebook.com/#!/events/210734319013516/
"Birth of the Voice: solidarity" - Artist Jenny Rose
            Tom Kirlin is onto something, he attracts hundreds of artists in popular cities by inviting them to be part of this event, and the participating artists share the affair with their friends using the most effective advertising tool out there: social media.  Kirlin then provides a gallery type show with an attractive twist and alluring ambiance; guests enjoy an entertaining night out and leave the event wanting more.
            Kirlin will be returning for another Pancakes and Booze Art Show on August 31st, 2012.  Due to the big hit reaction of the first show Kirlin will be extending the event to go on for two nights.  There is an art call for local artists in the Portland area to participate in the next upcoming show.  If you are interested in displaying your work or just want to attend check out the latest events page on facebook.


For more information and a video of past P&B events visit: www.pancakesandbooze.com.
All artwork submissions for the August Pancakes & Booze should be sent to pancakesandbooze@gmail.com with name, city of the show, and examples of work JPEGS and links only.

- ArtVigilante: Jenny Rose.
Photography by Randy Foster: FosterPhotoGraphix. You can also stay connected with his work on the FosterPhotoGraphix Facebook page. 

Artist Davey Cadaver creatively manipulating paint with brush and hands. 



Visit Cadaver's Facebook
Hillary Christen assisted Cadaver with his live demo.
A piece by Helvismith from her "deconstructed robot" series.
Fresh Ghost Art: www.freshghostart.com.

Sunday, March 4, 2012

A Glimpse Into The Life of Artist George Jennings




A Dancer's Feet
Acrylic on Panel

Artist George Jennings has had anything but a typical life.  In the past, he was in the air force and also worked for the U.S. Secret Service.  At one point he even took a job as a truck driver.  Now he spends his free time creating unique fine arts masterpieces.

Perhaps, George's intriguing life experiences have been an influence in his moving, eye-catching, and thought provoking art work. Visual arts can be a paradox of expression often sharing glimpses of an artist's life or an essence of their emotion.
Koi
Acrylic on Panel

George paints mostly with acrylics. Yet there is not one medium that he favors over another. He finds that a fusion of different mediums help to manipulate the image, creating the results that he envisions.  Each painting for George is personal and has a meaning of it's own. He is acutely aware that this may or may not come across universally to the viewer. He hopes that viewers will perceive their own reflections in his work and find something in it that brings them a sense of peace or joy.


George feels motivated by music while he paints, he finds that listening to music opens his senses and creates a relaxing atmosphere.  He enjoys artists such as, Bob Dylan, Laura Nyro, and Nick Drake. George explains, "great music always helps provide me with the right environment to create."

It was not a conscious decision for George to become an artist; rather, it was more a matter of influential circumstances paired with natural ability and desire.  He was introduced to the concept of being an artist at a very young age by his grandfather, artist John N. Robinson from Washington D.C.  During the summer months, when school was out, his grandfather would line up all seven of the grandchildren on the porch, including George, and teach them the fundamentals of art.  His Grandfather took the time to nurture and engage with him on the subject of fine arts and evidently those moments never left George. This made an impression on the young George Jennings for the rest of his life.

George was fortunate to grow up in Washington D.C., a location rich in artistic culture.  During his weekends he spent many hours roaming the Smithsonian galleries and feeding his hunger for the visual arts.  With immense receptivity he soaked in the art like a sponge in his curious mind.  Assuredly this prompted him to dive into the creation of his own work as an artist.

His young artistic enthusiasm was embellished by spending a year at an art-specific high school called  The Duke Ellington School of the Arts.  This school fosters artistically inclined students and is a place where they offered advanced studies of art. During this time in life George began an active effort as an artist competing against his peers by entering into regional art competitions.

A Moment of Reflection
Acrylic on Panel

After high school George continued to paint and grow as an artist independently.  He submitted his work in various contests, participated in group art shows and solo exposes.  

Currently, George's diligence as a painter continues to open the door to a plethora of art exhibit opportunities for his work. In 2010 and 2011 he was chosen as the featured artist for the Onyx Fine Arts Collectives art shows in Seattle and Portland. In addition he was given the People’s Choice Award from the Onyx event.  He also manages his own art business, and sells his work through various retail outlets, as well as his own website.  While accomplishing all of this he still continues to maintain a nine to five job; however he does plan to get to the point where he is able to make painting a full time commitment.  As it stands he uses his free time after work and on the weekends to paint.  This example of persistence while juggling a busy lifestyle is both inspiring and motivating for others to see.   

As previously mentioned, George's first influence was his grandfather; the caring teacher that took the time to instruct him in the methods of art.  He has found a similar affinity with artists such as Alphonse Mucha, Maxfield Parrish, and Patrick Nagel.  George is also fond of Japanese Anime.

When asked about why he became an artist, George explained, “I can't imagine anything more important in life than waking up and being able to create something every day.”  He believes that art expression is unique to each individual; what touches him may not be parallel to what inspires others.  This makes art such an ever changing expression, truly exclusive to each individual. 

To George Jennings, art is an evolution. His taste in art continues to expand as he gets older. George elaborated that “art brings a purpose to my life.  It allows me to express myself in a way that others may not have available to them.  It keeps me going."

Currently, Local Color Gallery, located in our sister city Seattle Washington is displaying Jennings work through March 2012.  Please see the link for gallery information: http://www.localcolorseattle.com/

You may also view more of George Jennings work on his website: http://georgejenningsart.fineartstudioonline.com/

Jade Dress
Acrylic on Panel






Seattle




George Jennings Fine Art: http://georgejenningsart.fineartstudioonline.com


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Monday, February 27, 2012

Visual Arts Pairs Well With Justice




Visual art speaks justice. This rings true and was presented in a real way at last night's Portland Loves Cambodia 2nd annual art show. 


Graphic designers from Nike and other influential organizations displayed their art designs inspired by the restoration efforts of child sex traffic victims in Cambodia. The reality of this crime is nothing to hide behind hushed words. This real tragedy goes on today at this moment. Children are being manipulated, stolen, bought and sold in locations all around the world, including the United States. Cambodia in particular has a reputation for such atrocities.  

This PDX event took place at Nemo Design off of Belmont in Portland. A DJ brought the magic of ambiance into the atmosphere playing a good mix of tunes, dazzling the senses of our ear drums. Raffle tickets were for sale at the door. This was no raffle to shrug a shoulder at, amazing prizes were won from local supporting businesses including Alladin Theatre, Stumptown Coffee Roasters; Pine State Biscuits, The Clymb; Modern Domestic, Bliss Salon; WTF Bike Shop, Enso Winery and many more. Free beer was donated by Widmer brewery, quenching the thirst of guests attending. Art was displayed and vibrantly appealing to the eye. The sales of all of the prints were donated to Transitions Global.

There are many organizations springing up to battle this violation that steals such innocence from the most vulnerable of victims. Many people are taking notice and the hope stands that many more will pay attention. A non-profit organization by the name of Transitions Global focuses primarily on the young girls rescued from child sex trafficking in Cambodia. The need is great in Cambodia and they want to be present to contribute their help. Transition's slogan is “Freedom Begins With A Dream.”

The Portland Loves Cambodia art show was a benefit that extended awareness and raised proceeds for Transition's efforts. It takes $1000 to educate one rescued girl for one year, all of the proceeds from this event went towards this development. It is amazing what a few inspired individuals can do to make a difference. Imagine if the majority of the world started to care. Imagine if we looked at each other as brother and sister... how would our perspectives begin to change.

The visual arts paired with justice, simply makes sense. The graphic designs displayed at the event were created to make an inspiring statement towards this cause. One piece was made up of black and yellow abstract designs and in the center is a contrasting blue eye. Below the image it says “Wake Up Dreaming.” Transitions Global keeps dreaming and continues to put forth tremendous effort to make a difference in these young girls' lives.

There are ways that you can make a tangible contribution. Visit Transitions Global to learn more about what they do and make a difference by donating or sponsoring a rescued girl: www.transitionsglobal.org. Another way to get involved is by physically traveling to Cambodia to see and learn for yourself; Transitions is hosting an upcoming summer 2012 engagement trip to Phnom Penh, Cambodia. If you are interested please e-mail info@transitionsglobal.org for an application. Also keep in mind applications for this trip are due by March 15, 2012.

“Every girl is sacred. Every girl deserves dignity. Every girl needs to dream. And no girl should ever be sold.” -Transitions Global


 Transitions Global: www.transitionsglobal.orgTransitions Facebook







 Framed and non-framed prints contributed by the following artists:

Adam R Garcia (PDX)
Christopher David Ryan (Portland, Maine)
Jeff Rogers (NYC)
Mike Spoljaric (PDX)
Kalle Crafton (PDX)
Fiodor Sumkin (Paris, FR)
Leandro Castelao (Buenos Aires, AR)
Blake Gantz (PDX)
Ryan Caruthers (PDX)
Ryan Collier (PDX)
Cynthia Tuan (PDX)
Derek Kim (San Francisco)
Everett Vangsnes (PDX)

Written by Art Vigilante: Jenny Rose


Send your input, art events, or if you are an artist and want to share on ArtVigilante: artvigilantenorthwest@gmail.com

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Empty Walls Begging For Color




Young Kosovo artists ready to embark on their own 1st Friday event for the first time.


In war torn Kosovo, after 10 years of rebuilding, the art culture gradually takes form.  Local art advocates recently traveled to Gjilan,Kosovo to view the birth of visual arts in a culture that once lacked the freedom of expression.

Young Kosovoian high school students are embarking for the first time into the world of fine arts.  Up until now they had never realized that being an artist was an option in life.  Many of them had never seen a single piece of visual art.

Drew Parsons, a local art curator with Drew-Jones Studio Art of Vancouver, traveled to Gjilan, Kosovo with a group from the Mosaic Church in Portland to observe this phenomenon.  Parsons described a city block full of coffee shops in Gjilan, one right after the other.  Inside the shops the walls are bare, not a single piece of visual art decorates the businesses to welcome in customers.  These are Empty walls begging for color.

On the far right: Drew Parsons. They are all holding work by Kosovo Artist Jeton Muja.


























































Parsons explained that Kosovo's students are just beginning to feel comfortable expressing themselves.  With less than a handful of theaters and only one art gallery, a lack of accessibility in Gjilan offers very little opportunistic settings for the growth of visual arts to seep into the culture.

Freedom of expression is a luxury that can often be taken for granted here in the United States. Local Vancouver coffee shops, libraries and restaurants would feel empty without the embellishments of art on the walls.  Art patrons may not fully embrace how lucky they are to have this free form of visual communication all around them because they are accustomed to its presence. 
 
Art is everywhere.  Art moves in a cycle and rhythm in nature.  Nature presents an elegant and perfected example of the visual arts.  Unfortunately, the natural expression of art can be covered and disrupted by unnatural acts of violence and war.  Kosovo has felt that heavy cloud for far too long.  However, the residue of this pain is subsiding and  individuals from Kosovo are finally able to see clarity apart from the wreckage.


Art revolutionizes the lives Kosovo's youth and empowers them to have a voice. Progressive change is in the works for Kosovo.  There is an art specific high school for students in Gjilan to explore and learn the skill of fine arts.  Also a visionary group runs a community center in Gjilan that encourages visual art expression.  In the community center they are creating a gallery space in which the local people may display their work.
Parsons taught an art class to Kosovo students.

Citizens of Kosovo have grown up with the fear and control of constant war.  Some know the pain through their parents’ eyes and as a result, many young people have learned to keep quiet. In this way, learning to communicate through art, for Kosovo's people, is like learning to speak for the first time.


Gallery 360 in Vancouver, WA is currently displaying art work by Kosovo students during the months of February and March 2012.  The Kosovo art pieces speak volumes of emotion.  One piece by a young artist, Albesa Aliu, shows a girl behind what looks like bars and the words "I want freedom" are visible.  The reality behind those words are real to the youth in Kosovo as they are seeking freedom.  According to Drew Parsons, Albesa Aliu expressed that she personally seeks freedom as a woman, freedom from cultural expectations on her gender. The call for independence seems apparent in the Kosovo student's artworks, they are pioneers in a new era.
Art piece far right done by Artist Albesa Aliu. " I want freedom"

Locals in the Clark County area are encouraged to visit Gallery 360 to view this work on display through March 24th. The young artists from Kosovo are unique in the sense that they have little outside art influences.  They now have the freedom to tell their story through their art expressions.  They share with the world a glimpse of Kosovo.






For more information:



Gallery360 & Mosaic Arts Alliance
111 West 9th Street Vancouver, WA 98660
Hours: Wed.-Sat. 12-5p.m.


Drew Parsons
DREW-JONES STUDIO ART

Monday, February 13, 2012

The Brave Take On Their Own Stories








"Black Portal / Don't Go Don't Go!"
2012
Acrylic and Spray paint / Panel


Artist Jared Tharp paints dynamic abstracts using vibrant color and geometric images mixed with a fusion of imaginative characters that take shape and personality in his own world presented on the canvas. The scenes in his work are both humorous and deeply thought provoking at the same time.


When viewing Jared's paintings I was intrigued by the outer worldly designs presented which begged my curiosity to take a closer look at the artist behind the work. There is an element of unguarded inventiveness that spills out through his work. Evoking my own imagination to create a story behind the scenes that I view, Jared's art does that. It inspires the viewer to ponder in wonderment.

 


There was really no beginning point of “becoming” an artist for Jared Tharp. He just was and is. As a child he drew constantly, infatuated with creating cartoon characters and whatever it was that developed out of his consciousness onto paper. He was this little machine, a drawing machine. He never questioned his constant need to create, it was just natural for him. His father is an artist and his mother is “nurturing as hell”. So Jared was set up with a dynamic duo of inspiring parents. Jared’s parents would express excitement and positive reinforcement towards his young work. His parents planted seeds of encouragement which probably plays a part in who he is today as an artist.


Jared's painting style has been an ever evolving process. He describes it as a “roundabout journey”. He began with a style similar to the “hot” comic book artists of the 90's. There was a time that Tharp aspired to be a comic book artist himself. After he completed high school he took a painting class at a junior college in Stockton, California. In this course he was introduced to the concept of making art just for the sake of making it.  Jared found himself going through a transitional period and was confused with his own sense of expression. He wanted to paint superhero like figures but felt that the professors wouldn't be pleased with that type of expression on canvas. During this time he remembers feeling like he was “pretending” to be a 60's abstract expressionist painter, it was a phase of finding his own feet.


A major turning point was when Jared discovered art by the likes of Jeff Soto and Barry Mcgee. Jared describes their work as “art that has a young nerdy appeal.” This discovery was revolutionizing for Tharp, it opened the door for Jared to feel comfortable expressing himself using his own unique style. These artists he looked up to gave him the confidence to be the artist that he wanted to be. A lot of stereo types exist in the visual art world and many replicas of style based on prominent art history influence and institutionalism of fine arts are presented as acceptable, but it is the brave and adventurous that take on their own story. It is a beautiful thing when an artist, like Jared, is able to step out of that box and truly find freedom of his own voice through his art expression.


It's interesting how artists are attracted to certain styles, we all have a unique sense of what is beautiful or enticing to our own eyes. Jared is definitely inspired by other artist's and has a natural affinity for 1980's aesthetics. Color is very important to Tharp. You can see this in action through his work. Eye catching and color saturated contrasting elements, evoking personality through his choice of shade. Jared often finds himself admiring a color combination from nature, such as a flower or a certain textile might stand out to him and then he uses that color inspiration for his paintings.


Jared mainly works with acrylic as his medium of choice. He is comfortable with it so he uses it. Nevertheless, the more he works and experiments with other mediums the more open he becomes to trying new things and the evolution of his art continues to keep taking shape.


"Art can take any form and it means something different to everyone.” Jared does not have a solidified opinion on art, he is a believer that we all have our own views and attributes. For Jared, art is a romance that he is in love with. It is something that has always been there for him. Jared explains: “Love for people and things come and go...but art stays.”


Jared Tharp finds it difficult to sum up his message as an artist. He feels that his work often expresses a lot of negative themes like paranoia, fear, disappointment or heart break. Yet with all of the deep expression in his work he also wants to share that there is a “fun” element to it as well and he wants his viewers to see the honesty and good nature in his work.

View more of Jared's work at:   http://jaredtharpart.com/home.html


ArtVigilante Northwest
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Art News Journal: http://artvigilantenorthwest.blogspot.com/


"Here Comes the Sun / Things Don't Seem to be Alright"
2012
Acrylic and Spray Paint / Panel
"Opposing Forces"
2011
Acrylic / Panel
"The Beggars"
2012
Acrylic / Panel
"Pipe Dream" / "Say It Isn't So"
2012
Acrylic and Spray Paint / Panel

VIEW MORE OF JARED THARP'S WORK:
http://jaredtharpart.com/home.html