DESTIG Interview with our Top 20 Artist of 2018, James R Joy.
Read this interview in DESTIG Magazine
Read this interview in DESTIG Magazine
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DESTIG Interview
"I never went to art school or took an art class. I'm self taught which I believe allows me a great deal of freedom in my expression and originality in my technique. I have not been bogged down with art school theories and therefore can focus purely on conveying the mood of the piece."
Tell us about yourself and background.
My name is James R. Joy. I was born in Chicago in 1966, and have lived in this great city ever since. I'm a self taught artist who began drawing at age ten, and painting with watercolor around age 25.
Tell us about your work.
I'm a watercolor painter. I enjoy doing figurative works, landscapes and city scapes. But no matter what the subject is, I always try to create a haunting image that at it's core finds truth in mood and emotion. With the purpose of making a deeply profound connection with the viewer.
What makes your work and approach unique?
I never went to art school or took an art class. I'm self taught which I believe allows me a great deal of freedom in my expression and originality in my technique. I have not been bogged down with art school theories and therefore can focus purely on conveying the mood of the piece.
Why is your work a good investment?
My work, although personal to me, is universal in it's themes. And therefore everyone can relate, and it's also simply well done art which will stand the test of time and be popular long after I'm gone.
Tell us about some of your achievements.
I currently have a painting on display at the Kentucky Watercolor Society annual exhibition in Louisville. I've had two successful solo exhibitions at the Saltcreek gallery in Brookfield, Il. I'm a member of The 119TH STREET ARTISTS and display my work in their group shows at Cornerstone Gallery in Whiting, In.. And I do commision work.
What are your sources of inspiration?
I'm inspired by the every day life that surrounds me, and I find great inspiration in other art forms like music and literature, film and photography.
What you are passionate about?
I'm passionate about the healing power of artistic expression and it's important role in society.
I believe art in all it's forms is our true salvation as a species. It's the light in a sometimes dark world.
Tell us the back-story of some of your projects.
Just this past August I hosted "Music to My Eyes", a 119TH STREET ARTISTS all music themed art show featuring live performances from several local musicians. It was big success. Last year I was commissioned by musician Phil Angotti to do the art for his solo album, "Such Stories". I was also commissioned by Chicago Jazz Guitarist Tony Richard's to do several watercolors of his favorite jazz musicians. The paintings were very well received.
Share with us your upcoming projects.
I have a group show coming up next month with The 119TH STREET ARTISTS, "The Oliver Brown Exhibition", at Cornerstone Gallery. In November, I'll be doing a series of plein air watercolor paintings in Monticello, In. And I'm also currently working on a watercolor graphic novel which I'm also writing.
Tell us about where you are based.
I'm based in Chicago, one of the great cities of the world!
Website: jjoy.artspan.com