Chatting to Jon was a great escape and proved somewhat reflective about how Cornwall has changed since childhood. Jon’s newfound art has bought colour and creativity into LilyBoo. He has a shelf space there, and we are delighted to share his journey with you.
Chatting with Jon reveals his deep pride in his Cornish heritage. Having grown up in Truro and now based in Par with a great view over the beach and sea, this clearly influences his work. Jon works full time and is now finding time to squeeze in his hobbies, such as music and art, along with playing the organ at Lostwithiel Church
It’s evident that home is very creative, given that Jon’s wife is a musician and they have five children together.
Like many people Jon’s artwork commenced during lockdown when he had time at home looking over the beach and he created his first piece of artwork for his wife. His love of bright colours in artwork makes his work stand out from others. Jon has taken influence from album covers and his surroundings, creating paintings with humour. One of Jon’s favourite pieces he created was a depiction of his wife walking in Penzance. Jon has confirmed that his wife is a big fan of his work!
Jon’s work is predominantly in acrylics.
This interest in art has steadily grown and now Jon’s art business sits alongside his full time job as a civil servant.
Jon explained that he has a process for discovering what influences his work, which could include the change of season, colours such as brown and bronze or bright blues, and a love for capturing timelessness. It was interesting talking to Jon about his process: he photographs scenes and then removes the cars and traffic before painting, perhaps evoking a time when the roads were less congested.
Jon receives commissions and is now in his first shop. As time has passed Jon has gained several repeat customers.
Talking to Jon, it’s evident that Cornwall is a huge inspiration for him, from the colours to the structure of the buildings. Jon also explained that Salvador Dali has been a huge influence, not just for his pure brilliance but also for the colours and structures of his work. Jon took his work and added local structures such as the Gribbon Head, to a piece of art influenced by Salvador DalÃ’s work.
Over the next year, Jon will focus on acquiring more customers and promoting his work by adding a website and joining other makers at craft fairs. He would also love to expand his commission work and mentioned that he has tried portraits, which he hopes to increase as well.
