Information Page
Here is some information about the artist,
Jonathan Oakes.
More precisely, me.
I am an artist who is fundamentally inspired by the natural world. My artwork is deeply influenced by environmental concerns. The main focus lies in the contrast between the synthetic experience and the real experience, e.g. looking at a photograph of a sunset and experiencing it first hand. Never having the true experience and never experiencing the truth. This is the illusion which humankind inherits, to be supreme over all things, ceasing to evolve due to arrogance, self praise and a self made environment. Disposable, but everlasting.
I create art which is abstract by definition and my style has been described as organic and delicate, it has also been commented that my paintings have potency and resonance. In general my artworks are created using mixed media on paper, canvas or large abandoned photographs. I utilise layers and mark making to add depth and an imagined narrative within the painting.
I would describe myself as a contemporary artist as I feel it is my duty to comment on and draw awareness to environmental issues and questionable social behaviours. Humankind's continued disconnection with the natural world. Craving natural and organic products, whilst dwelling in unnaturally sanitised housing. I endeavour to comment on these differences within the various themes of my artwork. Many of which are accompanied by original writings which act as a guide for the viewer's imagination and comprehension.
I don't take myself too seriously, what's the point? However, I do take my Art seriously. I work hard, I study, I research, I experiment, I prepare and I enjoy. The joy rages through me when I paint, a primal passion, an active creative tingle that can keep you nourished and awake all night adding and subtracting, building and destroying. It is more than a simple creative spark. It is an engulfing fire that excites the mind with the possibilities and the decisions that are to made, instinctively knowing what has to be done.
Born in 1969 Jonathan spent his formative years in Sheffield, U.K., and would spend much of his leisure time walking in the Peak District, filling up on the rugged landscapes. A contrast to the dark, industrial environments he frequented daily as a welder.
In 1998 he completed a B.A. (hons) degree in Visual Art and Professional Media, 2001 he also completed a Post Graduate Certificate in Electronic Media. For several years after leaving university Jonathan continued to exhibit his artwork in galleries across the country. However, with the lack of sensible income and other responsibilities he was forced to get a “proper job”.
He worked as a freelance Graphic Designer for a number of years as well as an Audio/ Visual Technician. At the time he was absorbed in editing and producing original digital music and sound tracks. Creating in sound what he now creates in his paintings. All this digital despair did not replace the joy of physically creating an actual artwork.
In 2022 after being diagnosed with a long term illness and unable to work, he decided he would re-start his Artistic career. He says that “In the last few years I have been trying to make up for lost time, my bottled up creativity is now able to be released”. Jonathan now lives with his wife and two children Tewkesbury, U.K.
All artworks are dispatched using a tracked and signed for service.
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Free shipping is offered on any artworks on paper which are to be delivered to U.K mainland. International deliveries will be charged. The shipping rates reflect this service
Larger artworks or multiple purchases will be costed on a bespoke basis.
Where possible all packaging is eco-friendly or recycled.
Artworks on paper will be shipped in suitable reinforced, padded envelopes.
Larger paper artworks will be rolled and protected in cardboard tubes.
Other items will be arranged with the client.
All paper A4 sized artworks are back mounted on 160gsm card.
A signed Certificate of Authenticity will be emailed to the client on request.