Speakeasy with Jennifer JL Jones

Jennifer Jones’ paintings combine a poetic, almost sensual grace with consistently bold execution. Through multiple layers of abstraction — in traditional oils mixed with materials such as wax, metal, asphalt, textured paper, and recently, leaves and dried fruit — each work becomes a “rich organic patina.” Several of Jones’ paintings are currently featured in FOUR ARTISTS TO WATCH, on view at Fay Gold Gallery through March 28. (This will be final exhibition at the gallery’s Miami Circle location. Although Fay Gold will close her physical gallery, she will continue to represent artists privately.) Recently, Jones received official word that the Atlanta Botanical Garden will commission three of her paintings for its permanent art collection in a new wing opening up next month.

Who is this person, and why are they dancing in front of your painting!?

That’s Julia, one of my youngest art collectors. She also happens to be my goddaughter. I believe she is was dancing because she’s so excited to see my newest paintings featured at the opening on Feb. 13 at Fay Gold Gallery.

__What do you strive for in your work, and what do you admire in works by other painters, abstract or figurative?
I believe intent and execution are key in the creative process — the distinction between a strong abstract painting from a poor one becomes obvious in how well people connect and/or relate to the painting. I strive for connection in all my works. I want to communicate through my works with viewers without saying a word ... to visually move them to feel emotion or open up their imaginations ... it’s very personal and I tend to admire a sense of emotion in other artists’ works as well … When artists get too wrapped up in the concept, sometimes the result is poor craftsmanship and, unfortunately, that can completely take away from the painting or work of art.__