Today we’d like to introduce you to Darren Jones.
Darren is a Chicago based artist who captures nature’s beauty in paintings which evoke emotion and a sense of humanity. Born in Canada, he is a self-taught artist who enjoys working in oil, acrylic and mixed mediums on canvas or wood panels. He is frequently asked how he began painting. From a young age, he has always known that he has the soul of an artist but it wasn’t until one summer day in 2004 while going to a movie, he passed an art store. He did not go in but noticed a “starter” oil painting kit in the window for sale. Intrigued, he returned to the store after the movie and decided to make the purchase, one that he will never regret. He began painting that evening and has not put his brush down since. On March 6, 2009, after being laid off from his executive position with a travel publication, he has taken the leap to pursue his passion full time!
“Nature and the beauty that surrounds us inspire my soul, my thinking, and my artwork.” Natural landscapes, gardens, flowers, and water heavily influence his work. Growing up, fond memories of his mother’s gardens and how she tended to them so gently and they have been the inspiration for many of his paintings. Traveling frequently, Jones is often moved by novel surroundings. “Many of the world’s natural wonders act as a muse for my work.” All of these elements help him create works that are impressionistic and contemporary in style.
With his current collection, he tries to evoke a sense of place, peace, and calm within one’s soul. With many of his new pieces, he has incorporated delicate recycled papers, wood fibers and beach sand mixed with acrylic paints to create a greater depth to his work.
Darren is a supporter of many organizations and charitable events. He helps raise funds through his art for groups that support children, treat mental illness and AIDS/HIV.
His work is featured in galleries and private collections in 50 countries across North America, Europe, Australia and the Middle East.
Has it been a smooth road?
I began painting when I was working full time in the corporate world. I started out using my sunroom as my workspace. So, the first challenge was balancing both a work life and an art life, and painting in limited spaces. This led to me finding a studio space outside of my home and shared with another artist. Here I shared the space for the next seven years. Doing a few shows based on my time, I worked full time, so I would paint at night and on the weekends.
When I was laid off back in 2009, I took the leap to be an artist full time. Here the obstacles were mentally realizing I was fully in charge of my future. There was no guarantee of a paycheck, but bills would have to be paid. I fought through this by painting and haven’t looked back. The first year was a little bit of a struggle as I tried to really establish myself in the art market. Getting into shows, galleries and exhibits were challenging back then, but you learn from these and build on it to become more determined and successful.
The next challenge was to move out of that studio and to be completely on my own in my own space and studio! This was one of my best decisions that I have made and my work even changed with this move.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Darren Jones (Darren Jones Studio) story. Tell us more about the business.
I am a contemporary abstract artist that specializes in more mixed media style paintings that are all landscaped and nature inspired.
I am known right now for two major series, one being my “One Can Dream” series and the other my “Standing Proud” series.
I am most proud that I have discovered my passion and able to paint and bring my art to so many markets and patrons, not only here locally, but globally. It makes me smile to help make the world more beautiful with art.
I am set apart by my style, the techniques, and materials I use. I actually paint with my actual hands, applying the paints directly with my hands and rarely use a paintbrush or palette knife. I use a variety of materials mixed into and on panels of a canvas. They include but not exclusive to industrial staples, plaster, ink, recycled paper and wood fibers, beach sand and acrylic paints.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I see the biggest shift is that patrons are leaning towards going to the artist directly, getting to know the artist before purchasing. Making a much more personal interaction and transaction.
I really don’t follow any trends, just paint from my heart and that silly little voice in my head!
Pricing:
- My work currently ranges from $1600 to $12,000.
Contact Info:
- Address: Darren Jones Studio
4001 N. Ravenswood, Suite 603A
Chicago, IL 60613 - Website: www.darrencjones.com
- Phone: 773-983-5614
- Email: darrenjonesart@hotmail.com
- Instagram: Darren Jones Art
- Facebook: Darren Jones Studio
- Twitter: Darren Jones Art
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.
