Preservation of vulnerable wildlife is the focus of Naomi Jones’ work: she finds catharsis in painting soulful animals. Portraits of vulnerable species native to the North American landscape are painted with an illustrative sensitivity, reminding the viewer to appreciate the delicate balance of nature. Jones tries to make such wildlife, frequently living on the edges of homes and gardens, visible through paintings set among vividly patterned backgrounds.
Born in New York, New York in 1960 Jones lived in Queens and Long Island before attending the State University of New York College at Purchase in Westchester. At university she studied Fine Art and developed her strong creative foundation with influences such as painter Nick Marsicano, sculptors Tal Streeter and Jan Groover, and photographer Jed Devine. Jones was awarded a BFA with Honors in Fine Art.
Jones lived many years in Greensboro, North Carolina a city which is known for creative activism, ecological conservation, and an artistic approach to civic spaces. Working in art related fields and teaching positions in public schools allows Jones to share her expertise with her students. Her original artworks have been exhibited and collected throughout the US.
Jones is inspired by Georgia O’Keefe’s attention to the natural world and Frida Kahlo’s narrative approach to painting. The patterns of William Morris have also inspired the artist, and she has found them to be rich resources of inspiration for her lively backgrounds.
EXHIBITIONS
2019-23 Artspace Warehouse, Los Angeles, CA
2019 Platypus & Gnome, Wilmington, NC
2018 Scuppernong Books, Greensboro, NC
2018 Hirsch Wellness, Revolution Mills,
Greensboro, NC
2018 Greensboro Project Space, Greensboro, NC
SOLO EXHIBITIONS
2018 “I Spy: Art by
Naomi Jones,” Art In Bloom Gallery, Wilmington, NC
FILM & TV
CSI: Las Vegas
The Flight Attendant S.2, HBO