Today we’d like to introduce you to Jason Turner.
Hi Jason, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I became interested in art at a very early age while growing up in New Orleans. As we all know, New Orleans has an eclectic art scene and it has always fascinated me. In the beginning, I would draw wildlife or Louisiana architecture and landscapes. As I got older and enlisted into the military (US Army in 2001), I sort of distanced myself from art altogether. Eventually, after ending my enlistment in 2005, I found myself drawing again to cope with depression and expressing my thoughts/feelings. Soon enough I gravitated towards oil paints as my primary medium. The art I create usually reflects my time in service. However, I also paint portraits and lately vintage vehicles. Painting the human figure as well as vehicles have a complexity that fascinates me and keeps my mind occupied. It’s now my way to escape.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
To be honest, it hasn’t [been a smooth road]. Learning new skills and mediums was very difficult but practicing when given the chance helps. The most difficult obstacle for me, however, was opening my world to the public to see and “judge”. Eventually, learning to paint or create what makes me thrive from day to day got me away from caring about what others thought.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in oil painting. Painting portraits, military series, vintage vehicles, still life, etc. I tend to gravitate towards art that challenges me. At the moment, I am concentrating on photo realism. The art I am most proud of creating will always be military. I always have a sense of pride when painting a fellow veteran. What sets me apart from others is that I’m not afraid to step out of my comfort zone in a painting. I’m always learning every day and creating a new skill or technique for myself. Expanding my horizons in different genres (landscape/wildlife/still life etc.) gives me the ability to be a more rounded artist.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Don’t forget about the military veteran artists. There are a lot of us out there. Sometimes, we may need a little push of confidence to show everyone “our world”.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.jhtfineart.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/jht2
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jhtfineart/
