JonOne, born John Andrew Perello in 1963, is a graffiti artist turned painter who has gained worldwide recognition for his dynamic and colourful abstract paintings.
His work is known for its energetic brushstrokes, vibrant colours, and layering of textures that evoke a sense of movement and depth. Today we will explore the life and work of JonOne, as well as his impact on the art world.
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| Photo: rbanartcore.eu, Wikimedia. |
Early Days & Career
JonOne was born in New York City and grew up in the Harlem neighbourhood. He began painting graffiti on the streets of the city in the 1970s, during the height of the graffiti movement. His tag, "Jon156," became well-known in the graffiti scene, and he quickly gained a reputation as a skilled and prolific artist.
In the 1980s, JonOne moved to Paris, where he continued to paint graffiti and began to experiment with other art forms. He became involved in the emerging hip-hop scene in Paris, and his work began to incorporate elements of the music and culture.
JonOne's artistic style evolved over the years, as he began to explore different techniques and mediums. He began to incorporate more colour and abstraction into his work, moving away from the traditional letter-based graffiti style. His work began to be noticed by art collectors and galleries, and he began to exhibit his work in solo and group shows.
Artistic Style and Technique
JonOne's work is characterised by his use of energetic brushstrokes and vibrant colours. He often works on a large scale, allowing his paintings to fill the entire wall or canvas. He uses a variety of tools to apply the paint, including spray cans, brushes, and his hands, creating a layered and textured surface.
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| Photo: urbanartcore.eu, Wikimedia Commons. |
His paintings often have a sense of movement and depth, as he layers different colours and textures on top of each other. He uses a mix of opaque and translucent paints, creating a sense of depth and space within the painting.
While his work is abstract, it often incorporates elements of the city and urban culture. He uses shapes and colours that suggest the energy and movement of the city, and his work often includes references to graffiti and street art.
JonOne's work is also influenced by his love of music, particularly hip-hop and reggae. He often listens to music while he paints, and his paintings are infused with a sense of rhythm and energy that echoes the music he loves.
Impact on the Art World
JonOne's work has had a significant impact on the art world, particularly in the areas of street art and abstract painting. His work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and he has been the subject of numerous solo and group shows.
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| ERIC SALARD from PARIS, FRANCE, via Wikimedia Commons. |
In 2015, JonOne was commissioned by the French national rail company, SNCF, to paint a high-speed train. The train, which was unveiled in June 2016, features a colourful and dynamic abstract design by JonOne, and has been called a "rolling work of art."
JonOne's work has also been featured in a number of public art projects, including murals and installations in cities around the world. His work has been embraced by collectors and art enthusiasts, and his paintings have sold for significant sums at auction.
JonOne is a graffiti artist turned painter who has gained worldwide recognition for his dynamic and colourful abstract paintings. His work is characterised by energetic brushstrokes, vibrant colours, and layering of textures that evoke a sense of movement and depth. His impact on the art world has been significant, particularly in the areas of street art and abstract painting. He continues to push the boundaries of his art, creating dynamic and captivating works that capture the energy and excitement of the urban landscape.
Today, JonOne continues to paint and exhibit his work around the world. His work is highly sought after by collectors, and he has been commissioned to create public art projects in a number of cities. He has also collaborated with a number of brands and designers, including Nike, Hennessy, and the fashion designer, Agnes b.
JonOne's work has become a symbol of the energy and vitality of the city, capturing the essence of urban culture and the spirit of graffiti. His paintings are dynamic and engaging, drawing the viewer in with their layers of colour and texture. His impact on the art world has been significant, and he has inspired a new generation of artists to push the boundaries of their own work.
Q&A
What was JonOne's inspiration for his signature abstract style?
A: JonOne's inspiration for his signature abstract style comes from a variety of sources, including graffiti, urban culture, music, and the energy of the city.
What other artists has JonOne collaborated with?
A: JonOne has collaborated with a number of other artists, including the French graffiti artist, Seize, and the American artist, KAWS.
What is the significance of the number "156" in JonOne's tag, "Jon156"?
A: The number "156" in JonOne's tag, "Jon156," refers to the street address of his childhood home in Harlem.
How has JonOne's work been received in the traditional art world?
A: Despite his roots in graffiti, JonOne's work has been embraced by the traditional art world. His work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and he has been the subject of numerous solo and group shows.
What is the name of the high-speed train that JonOne painted for the French national rail company, SNCF?
A: The high-speed train that JonOne painted for the French national rail company, SNCF, is called the "Train Graffiti." It is a unique and vibrant work of art that travels across France at high speed, showcasing JonOne's dynamic style to millions of people.