Queen’s meticulously rendered still life paintings have a heightened sense of realism.  He works from direct observation, developing intriguing, enigmatic compositions that are based on personal narratives.  Favorite subjects include vintage toys and figurines, common objects, as well as elements of nature such as flower bulbs, branches, vegetables, shells, and fish.

 

The artist experiments extensively in arranging his compositions, carefully controlling the light quality to create the desired mood.  The paint surface becomes a dramatic stage as he develops an “emotional rapport” between the inanimate objects.  Queen begins by blocking in the lights and darks, adding mid-tone gradations before intensifying the color.  While a work in progress resembles the finished piece, Queen will labor over subtle adjustments and fine detail.

 

Queen explains: “Light sets up a visual hierarchy, emphasizing areas of contrast while objects in shadow become subdued.  I want to give the illusion of real life or even a heightened realism.  I work like a pendulum, back and forth between areas of the painting, refining the image as I go.  I explore how the use of visual elements can drive meaning, and I want to start a visual dialogue that viewers can further develop through their own viewing experience.”

 

First exposed to illusionistic painting at Eastern Kentucky University, Queen completed his B.F.A. at the University of Cincinnati School of Design, Art, Architecture and Planning.  His work is included in many important private collections, including that of a New York Times editor, as well as Frisch’s Big Boy Restaurants, Inc.

 

Recent Exhibitions & Awards:

2008  Summerfair Cincinnati:   Aid to Individual Artist (AIA) Grant Program

2007  “Rob Jefferson. Jonathan Queen. Jonpaul Smith.,” Miller Gallery

2007  “The Highland,” Group Exhibition, Hanover College Art Gallery

2006  “International ARC Salon” Juried Exhibition, Art Renewal Center, Still Life Finalist

2006  “Portrait Miniatures – Cincy Style,” Group Exhibition, Cincinnati Art Museum

2006  “Visions of the River,” American Cancer Society Benefit Show, Miller Gallery

2005  “45^th Anniversary Show,” Group Exhibition, Miller Gallery

2005  “No Place Like Home: Art from our Own Backyard,” Miller Gallery

2004  “International ARC Salon” Juried Exhibition, Art Renewal Center, Honorable Mention

2004  “Size Matters: Miniature Paintings,” Miller Gallery

2003  “Cincinnati Still Life,” Miller Gallery

2002  “Selective Focus,” Solo Exhibition, Cincinnati, OH

Museum Collections:  Cincinnati Art Museum