Meet the Artist:
Interview with Saxon JJ Quinn
Saxon JJ Quinn primarily uses canvas, graphite and paint, layering hues, symbols and textures to create works that sway from the intentional to the unrestrained, the minimalist to the uninhibited. Each piece bears meaningful motifs alongside elements of mischievous humour, with each mark representing an aspect of his life.
What fundamental aspects of your life or experiences do you find consistently influence your art? How do these influences manifest in your work, and how have they evolved your creative perspective over time?
My childhood, personal growth, or at least personal understanding, are certainly areas that currently influence my work. Having two little girls under 2 years old has pushed me to reflect on myself and also revisit all the sketchpads my mum had kept over the years. Throughout my entire design career, whether in publication, fashion, visual, or digital design, I've always incorporated a rough, aged, or patina style into my work. This unintentionally became more than just a part of my painting; it started when I began working with cement and continues now as I work with canvas and the process of distressing yards of material.
Considering the societal impact of art, do you believe your work contributes to or challenges prevalent narratives, emotions, or perspectives within society? If so, can you share an example of a piece that particularly embodies this intention?
Many of my recent works reference personal insecurities and the 'idea' of fitting in, or at least what I once thought that looked like. They delve into themes of self-growth, love, and understanding. The titles of many of my works directly relate to these concepts: "Calm Stumble," "Home & Harmony," "Trial & Error," "Error," "THISMIGHTBEFUN," and the upcoming solo piece, "How Good Is a Smile.”
Beyond external markers of success, such as recognition or awards, how do you personally define achievement in your artistic journey?
Satisfaction in what I create. Creating in an almost auto-pilot state... What I mean by that is, as you begin the journey of painting (for me at least) you're constantly learning, trying to discover yourself and your style, comparing... Right now when I create works, I feel like I have my own distinct style (obviously influenced by other artists as well). When I work, I know that I'll be creating pieces that are truthfully reflective of me and what I do.
You've mentioned allowing mistakes and errors to shape your art, giving each piece its unique language and presence. Can you talk about a specific instance where an unexpected mistake turned into a defining feature of one of your artworks?
I always knew I wanted to incorporate all errors and mistakes, to paint freely and authentically create chaotic balance. With a background in design, I had a hard time allowing myself to paint this freely - I began by mocking up works in Photoshop, working with cement, and masking out areas to paint shapes. Even when doing these works, I wanted to break free from it but didn't feel like I had earned my stripes, I guess? It was only when I really went back and looked at my sketches as a kid and saw my daughter scribble that I really let go. All unexpected mistakes are now welcomed. The process of leaving yards of canvas on the studio floor for weeks helps this process as the material picks up all dirt, dust, paint, spillages, and more.
What advice would you give to an artist just starting their art career?
Allow yourself to free up when you paint; don't overthink it. Just go for it. You don't need to paint everything with the intention of selling or even showing other people. Just paint and explore styles, research other artists, go to galleries, and check out different artists' works. Browsing Instagram is a great way to discover new artists, but seeing works in the flesh really gives you a sense of texture, style, and beauty. Once you have a style or path that you love, begin to reach out to other artists, speak with galleries—don't be deterred by galleries not responding or giving you cold rejections. It will 100% happen; it's all part of it. Just keep hustling.
What exciting endeavors lie ahead for you? What can our community anticipate from your future ventures, and how can they support?
2024 is already signed off, which is pretty nice. I have a number of solos, including one in Copenhagen this Feb at Christoffer Egelund, a solo at SAV Gallery in Los Angeles, a couple of duo shows in Madrid and NYC, as well as some Aus Solos, an artist residency in Italy, and a few other interesting commissions coming up :)
Artist Contact Info:
Website: https://www.saxonjjquinn.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saxonjjquinn/
All images are property of Saxon JJ Quinn