Today we’d like to introduce you to Joe Nelson.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
A former instructor at the Gallery 37 summer program and a frequent youth mentor, my roots in the Chi’ run deep. I grew up in West Englewood, went to high school on the North Side, and Higher Ed at the American Academy of Art and Columbia College Chicago.
Drawing has been my primary way of communicating and expression since I was a kid. The “Golden Age” of hip-hop, 80’s pop culture, humor and family was the tapestry of my childhood and is reflected in my works to this day. Over time I explored and expanded my skill set to include multiple mediums so that now my works span across digital, oil and acrylic paints, and aerosol alike. From large outdoor murals, wood sculptures, customized vinyl toys to canvas— anything’s game.
Currently, I’m a lead designer for the CTA, specializing in custom edition bus wraps and city-wide communications. I also co-run a design business with my wife (www.jnjcreative.com) collabing with her on philanthropic and illustrative-leaning Design projects. I’m also frequently “in these streets” painting community murals and engaging collaborations in the city I love.
Please tell us about your art.
Fine artist/graphic designer specializing in aerosol/spray paint.
My work is a labor of love and reflects one of the best aspects of myself—my youthful “good” energy. The content of my work varies, but it’s almost always culturally themed, and or Chicago or pop-culturally inspired. FUN is also a primary motivator for me; we all need to smile more in this world.
In the end though, I want people to see my work, feel that it’s not only “cool”, but inspiring too.
Given everything that is going on in the world today, do you think the role of artists has changed? How do local, national or international events and issues affect your art?
I don’t think that the role of artists have changed, as artists have always functioned as a reflection of the times, to varying degrees. Artists are either reacting to events, intentionally “ignoring” them to provide a reprieve of sorts, or addressing issues directly in their works.
Current events usually culminate in my psyche over time, and my art is a cathartic release for me. I create from a heart space, usually not directly addressing any one issue head-on, but the *mood* I’m in is released in art form as a reaction to external pressures. So, I guess it’s not surprising to find comically dark pieces scattered in my catalog.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
Instagram: @cujodah
Check out cujodah.com and/or make inquiries by emailing jnj@jnjcreative.com
Contact Info:
- Website: cujodah.com
- Email: cujodah@gmail.com OR jnj@jnjcreative.com
- Instagram: cujodah
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jnjcreativedesignandmore
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
