Supporting local Ohio artists, the Springfield Art Museum hosted an exhibit of works by Cincinnati painter Jimi Jones. I caught a glimpse of his artwork during the Jason Morgan show and could not wait for the Grand Opening of “Faces & Stories”.
The first images I notice as I walk into the large exhibit hall are a quartet of paintings that immediately capture my attention. I am fascinated with the symmetry, graphic artistry and attention to detail represented in Jones’ artwork. The bright colors against the dark backgrounds allow my eyes to focus on the central images that are depicted in the art as I study each of the subjects’ facial expressions.
The painting titled You’re Fired, features images of Donald Trump and Jesus Christ, who are figures of extreme contrast. Mistakenly, I thought that this painting would have been one of the most recent works of Jones, but in fact, this piece of artwork was painted in 2102, long before Trump’s political run for the presidential race. There is a strong relationship of opposites when one compares the lives of Jesus and Donald. Jesus, the compassionate spiritual man who represents grace, forgiveness and a life of humility is what many would say is the complete opposite of Donald Trump, who is wealthy powerful and self-absorbed. The sharp lines that appear in the background give an image of shouting and aggression while these same lines above the head of Christ, represent holiness and spiritual divination. What kind of contrasts do you see in this painting?
The Monster Movie Aurora was painted by Jimi Jones in 2014. The figure on the left represents James Eagan Holmes who was convicted on 24 counts of murder and multiple accounts of attempted murder, when he entered a movie theater on July 20, 2012 and openly fired upon movie-goers. There seems to be an evil aura that dominates the top half of the painting, while innocent, unaware, families have not yet become aware of what is going to happen. The blue figure is obviously the shooter, while explosive-like objects seem to suggest some events have already occurred. Maybe the family members have not yet discerned the noise of the actual events to the action in the movie that is playing.
From John Wayne to Lil Wayne is one of the masterpiece paintings of Jones that represents two public figures from different eras and cultures. Painted in 2014, there are several graphic elements that include a hologram as well as cowboy clippings inserted into the artwork. What fascinates me is the stark difference between the two figures. John Wayne, known largely for his role as a cowboy in several movies in the 20th century and Lil Wayne, an American hip hop recording artist are featured in this painting. I love that it may spark an intrigue by the viewer to further understand the person that represents the culture outside of his own. I knew very little about Lil Wayne, except that I liked a couple of his songs, so this painting led me to learn more about the rapper’s life and career. Has there ever been a painting that has left you wanting to know more?
Up Close View of John Wayne
Movies and pop culture seem to be a recurring theme in Jones’ artwork. What is Beauty? is one of Jones’ most recent paintings which he completed in 2016. I love the attention to detail In Cleopatra’s hair and makeup, the reflections from King Tut’s mask and the physique of Tarzan. From its inception, the movie industry has manipulated the thoughts and minds of the general population by dictating what makes someone beautiful. Beauty continues to evolve through each generation.
Many of Jimi Jones’ portraits are of African-American celebrities that also have a passion for the Neo-Ancestral movement. Born of Cherokee and African American descent, Jones grew up to become a founding member of the Neo-Ancestralist Art Collective in Cincinnati.
The portrait of Edith Mararo was painted by Jones in 2015. Mararo is a fellow portraiture artist from the Cincinnati area who specializes in painting children. With the use of pastels, oils, acrylic, graphite, watercolor and charcoal, she has made a living as a local, talented artist.
Jones’ strong graphic design background is evident in his 2008 painting titled Martyrs. The antique composition surrounds the colorful death of Jesus in the center, drawing my eyes directly to Christ’s post-crucifixion body. Jesus is surrounded by US political figures that also gave their lives for their beliefs such as John F. Kennedy, Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King, Jr. The multi-dimensional King depiction seems to under-shadow the other victims, but takes up more of the page.
According to the placard, Jones states “Lincoln, Kennedy and Dr. King lost their lives because they dared to stand against slavery, injustice, and inequality. Much of the great art of all time has been dedicated to reminding people of those sacrifices”, Jones said. “I feel honored that as an artist I can carry on this tradition.”
Having had the opportunity to see the Pieta in Rome, I enjoyed this homage to Michelangelo’s sculpture. With a harsh Picasso-like graphics approach, Jones is able to pull off his use of strong lines yet softens them in a way that gives this painting a soft, humble tone.
Why These Cultures, painted by Jones in 2008, showcases his talent for detail. The color, shapes and intricate facets of this art piece bring out a story within a story and layers of artistry all in one painting. The graphics components are incorporated more into the design of the actual figures which draws the eye to the images that seem distant and secondary. In fact, they become more interesting and center stage the more I gaze upon the masterpiece. Again, there is the use of antique coloring, but it does not dominate the piece.
The amazing detail of Why These Cultures 2008
As I approach the Mad Tea Party, I have to admit that this painting intrigues me because I am not quite sure which players are represented here. I assume that Alice is on the far left at the head of the table and I recognize Johnny Depp’s character, but I am at a loss in identifying the other party attendees gathered around. Once again, the detail in the surrounding objects such as the chandelier and the shadows are very well thought out and executed. So who do YOU think these invitees represent?
As I approach the center of the room, there are an additional three portraitures that Jones has completed in 2014 as well. They are life-like with perfect attention to detail, outlining wrinkles, shadowing and bringing out the subject’s personality.
I am mesmerized by the amazing artistry of Jimi Jones’ paintings. They are provocative and encourage insightful questions and thoughts about humanity from various perspectives, political or otherwise. There were more portraitures that I had not discussed, and additional masterpieces. It is a wonderful experience to broaden one’s outlook on various cultures and beliefs and to focus on many of the major ideals that we, as humans, have in common.
Have you had the opportunity to review the artwork of Jimi Jones? I would love to know your thoughts and interpretation if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!
What to See and What to Do:
The Springfield Museum of Art
107 Cliff Park Road
Springfield, Ohio 45504
Telephone: 937 325 4673
- Admission Fee: Adults for $5, Students with Valid ID for $3; Seniors 65+ for $3; Children 17 and under are Free and Wittenberg students are Free. Special exhibitions may incur an additional cost, so check the website prior to visiting
- Hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 9AM to 5PM; Sunday: 12:30PM to 4:30PM; Closed Monday, Tuesday, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Independence Day and the Sunday after Art Ball.
- Amenities: Partnership with the Smithsonian, Exhibitions as well as Workshops and Classes
- Length of Visit: 1 to 2 hours
- Tips for Your Visit: Check the website to confirm any additional fees for special exhibits.
Where to Stay:
Marriott Courtyard, Springfield Downtown
100 South Fountain Avenue
Springfield, Ohio 45502
Telephone: 937 322 3600
Where to Eat:
Mike & Rosie’s Deli
330 W. McCreight Avenue
Springfield, Ohio 45504
Telephone: 937 390 3511
This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.
- Schuler’s Donuts: Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
- Simon Kenton Inn: This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue. With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
- Guerra’s Krazy Tacos: One of my favorite places to eat in Springfield, Guerra’s is known for their unique gourmet tacos.
- Salato Deli: I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
- Le Torte Dolci Bakery; Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
Where to Drink:
- Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company: Springfield’s only brewery, Mother Stewart’s showcases nine craft beers produced onsite.
What to Read:
- The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
- Springfield, Ohio: A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
- Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
- Still Standing: A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
- Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb
Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:
- Hartman Rock Garden
- Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
- Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
- Heritage Center of Clark County
- Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs
- Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
- Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio
Metamorphosis 2008
Jimi Hendrix 2016
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With voracious appetites, we were eager to sample the local wines as well as the olive oil produced by the farm. This beautiful eco-tourismo exports seven red and white wines as well as a variety of olive oils and balsamic vinegar.
The Grand Lodge at Yellowstone
