We had the good fortune of connecting with Jason John and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jason, did college have a meaningful and positive impact for you?
Absolutely! There is really something about picking up everything and starting new for a new adventure with completely new people. I really feel that the lived experience at a college or university is something that can’t be replicated. I think the most important aspect was learning to have passion in what I do. School is a bunch of lived lessons. Some of those lessons are not assignment based. They involve working with and solving problems with other passionate people.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My work is figurative oil paintings that explore the identity development. I was trained as a classical style painter, but my work is more influenced by contemporary art practice. I have been able to bring a classical rigor to contemporary art. I am most excited to be a part of an art community. Most artists in around support each other and push each other’s boundaries. It has not always been easy. Learning how to market a product that nobody needs to have was difficult. At first you don’t always know where your boundaries are. The lesson I learned is to be honest with the work I make and eventually you will find the people that support that. Be as kind as you can be to the people who support you and don’t waste any time with the people who are negative. I would like the world to know that making challenging work requires courage. The more you believe in your vision, the more the courage will come easy.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I live in Jacksonville. The first place I would take people is Riverside/ Avondale. This is the neighborhood my family lives in. It is a historic district in the city. I would also take them to Springfield, a historic district north of downtown. Both of these neighborhoods have great restaurants and breweries. We also have great beaches in Jacksonville. They would have to visit Neptune Town Center beach.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Dimelza Broche, Artist
Website: www.jasonjohnart.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jcjohnpaint/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonjohn/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JasonCJohn
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg_gSHgoG8MXEtVyXfetOFA?view_as=subscriber
Other: https://jasonjohn.domains.unf.edu
