featured maker: Gavin Jones

Gavin Jones is a visual artist based in New Orleans, Louisiana…

Tell us a bit about your work

Currently, the images I collect serve as building blocks for my artwork. Through improvisational techniques the images I compose create a visual narrative. The composition, shapes, and scale of canvas direct the next brushstroke. My work focuses on chapters or instances of experiences I’ve encountered throughout my life.

Love that you work with communal spaces. Do you have a favorite New Orleans project you worked on?

My favorite project to date was the mural @Ace Hotel New Orleans. The process of finalizing a design and working on a canvas that scale were great learning experiences. 

Describe your ideal day  

A royale coffee around 7:30am. Ideally 30 min meditation before sunrise. Work on a painting from the day before. Love taking paint breaks throughout the day! Going for a walk through City Park. Lunch with Shannon during quarantine, 30-40 min nap.. Have a really good random conversation @ coffee shop. Put some music on and take another paint break. Cook a simple meal. Maybe watch an old movie. Sleep etc 

How do you stay inspired? What do you do to get out of creative ruts?

I go through old sketch pads and remain very patient when facing inner resistance.

Is there anything that you collect?

I collect a lot of art supplies / frames / sculptures / art books to collage with or collect. Vintage furniture pieces. I love the hunt for buried treasures! 

What's your best advice for creatives looking to launch their own business?

Stay adaptable to suggestions from others in your field. Be true to your vision but be open to other perspectives. 

What books are on your nightstand?

On my nightstand currently are... Thursday’s Child an Eartha Kitt autobiography, Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harrari .. and Prince and Pauper Mark Twain 

If you could hang any artwork in your collection, what would it be?

I would love to have a portrait from Francesco Clemente in my art Collection! 

Have you picked up some surprising hobbies/rituals during this increased time at home?

During the quarantine I’ve picked up some old hobbies like puzzling. I’ve started gardening more, growing herbs, eating cleaner and making meals at home more consistently. I’ve taken to biking around New Orleans and walking to little free libraries in the neighborhood.