​ JFeelgood’s art is more than just a visual experience; it’s a profound journey into the depths of human emotion, nature, and abstract thought. Each piece tells a story that resonates on a deeply personal level, inviting viewers to explore their inner landscapes and connect with universal themes. As an artist, he seamlessly weaves together complex emotions, natural elements, and abstract concepts, creating artworks that speak directly to the heart. This post delves into the recurring themes in JFeelgood’s art and how they forge a powerful connection with his audience.
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1. The Power of Human Emotion: Art That Speaks to the Soul
 One of the most striking aspects of JFeelgood’s art is his ability to capture the raw, unfiltered essence of human emotion. His works often explore feelings of joy, sorrow, hope, and introspection, depicted through expressive brushstrokes and evocative color palettes. In pieces like “Epitaph of Feelings” and “Poetry of Solace,” JFeelgood doesn’t shy away from portraying vulnerability, allowing viewers to see fragments of their own emotional journeys within the artwork.
 This focus on emotion creates an immediate, intimate connection. It’s not just about looking at art; it’s about feeling it. The layers of texture and the intensity of colors are crafted to evoke responses that go beyond the visual, tapping into the viewer’s psyche and stirring personal memories and experiences. His art reminds us that we are all human, and that art can be a mirror reflecting our innermost thoughts and emotions.

2. Nature as a Reflection of the Human Experience
 Nature is another prominent theme in JFeelgood’s work, often serving as a metaphor for life’s complexities. Through lush landscapes, delicate florals, and abstract representations of natural forces, he draws parallels between the natural world and the human condition. His art often uses elements of nature to symbolize growth, change, and resilience, reminding viewers of the inherent beauty and unpredictability of life.
 For instance, in works like “Colossal Waste of Time” and “Worth The Trip,” JFeelgood uses nature not just as a backdrop but as an active element that interacts with the emotions and narratives within the pieces. The flowing rivers, vibrant skies, and intricate plant life are not merely decorative; they are storytelling devices that add depth and context, enhancing the emotional impact of each artwork. This interplay of nature and emotion invites viewers to reflect on their relationship with the world around them, finding solace and inspiration in the familiar yet profound motifs.

3. Abstract Concepts: Art Beyond the Literal
 JFeelgood’s art often delves into abstract concepts, challenging viewers to look beyond the surface and engage with deeper philosophical themes. His abstract pieces invite personal interpretation, allowing each viewer to find their unique meaning in the swirling colors and dynamic forms. This approach makes his art incredibly versatile and accessible, offering something for everyone, regardless of their art knowledge or background.
 Abstract works like “What is Felt?” encourage viewers to engage with the art on a subconscious level, prompting introspection and dialogue. The absence of clear definitions in these pieces mirrors the ambiguity of human thought and experience, making the art feel both personal and universal. This abstract quality is what sets JFeelgood apart, as his work consistently pushes boundaries, inviting contemplation and connection.

Creating a Deep Connection Through Art
 JFeelgood’s ability to blend human emotion, nature, and abstract ideas results in art that resonates deeply with its audience. His work is not confined to traditional definitions; it’s a dynamic exploration of what it means to be alive. Whether through the depiction of a serene landscape or a bold, abstract composition, his art invites viewers into a shared experience, one that transcends the canvas.
 Owning a piece of JFeelgood’s art means more than adding a decoration to your home; it’s about bringing a source of inspiration, reflection, and emotional resonance into your space. Each painting and print serves as a reminder of the beauty and complexity of life, offering a constant source of connection and contemplation.

Ready to bring these captivating themes into your home? Explore JFeelgood’s original paintings and prints today, and find the piece that speaks to you.

JFeelgood’s print shop offers an intriguing selection of high-quality, 8x10 art prints that capture the essence of his original works. Each print is thoughtfully crafted on archival paper, preserving the vivid colors and intricate details of pieces like “DreamFall,” “Permission,” and “Best Friend.” The art reflects themes of personal growth, vulnerability, and the human experience, making them perfect for anyone seeking meaningful artwork. Explore the collection and find the perfect print to elevate your space.

​Visit the Prints Shop to start your collection today!

"Epitaph of Feelings" by JFeelgood is a powerful mixed media artwork, measuring 36x36x2 inches, created during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic. This piece vividly captures the complex, often conflicting emotions experienced by the artist over six months. The painting is a tapestry of diverse elements, each representing a fragment of the intense emotional landscape that defined this time.


At the forefront, a tank driver fires a cannon, symbolizing aggression or defense, set against a theater backdrop. This juxtaposition suggests a dramatic and perhaps theatrical representation of conflict. Adjacent to this, a carousel horse stands on a stage, evoking a sense of nostalgia and the cyclical nature of life’s experiences, reminiscent of the constant ups and downs during the pandemic.


Dominating the upper section is a surreal, stylized woman with an umbrella merging with her head, almost like a hat, blending seamlessly with the distorted downtown buildings beside her. This imagery reflects a fusion of the internal (emotional) and external (urban) environments, highlighting the blurred lines between personal feelings and the broader societal impact during the pandemic. The woman's serene yet introspective gaze contrasts with the chaos surrounding her, suggesting resilience and contemplation amid turmoil.


The explosion from the tank’s cannon appears dangerously close to the woman’s face, yet the lack of direct interaction between these elements emphasizes the disjointed and often unrelated instances that collectively form the artist’s emotional response to the pandemic. The use of vivid colors and bold, dynamic strokes throughout the painting underscores the intensity of these emotions.


While there is no single, coherent narrative within the painting, "Epitaph of Feelings" serves as a visual diary of strong sentiments and experiences. Each element of the painting stands as a testament to the myriad feelings—fear, nostalgia, confusion, and introspection—that have shaped the artist’s journey through a uniquely challenging time in history.


This painting is also featured in his book, 'Thought Entropy', available for purchase on Amazon.

"Veritas" by JFeelgood is a thought-provoking mixed media artwork measuring 24x30x1 inches. This painting features a delicate depiction of a princess figure on stage, rendered with a transparent quality that conveys the theme of losing one's true self to the expectations and performances imposed by others. The background is an abstract explosion of colors, created with bold strokes of pink, yellow, blue, and green, suggesting the chaotic and vibrant backdrop of life or the complexities of the persona she presents.


The stage is framed in a muted black with metallic accents, drawing attention to the central figure of the princess, who appears to be engrossed in her own world despite the colorful tumult behind her. Her serene, almost ghostly presence contrasts with the vivid energy of the backdrop, symbolizing the inner conflict between authentic identity and the roles we perform for society.


The transparency of the princess figure is a powerful visual metaphor for the erosion of self that can occur when one's true nature is obscured by the need to conform or please others. This piece invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences of balancing personal authenticity with societal expectations.


"Veritas" captures the essence of vulnerability and introspection, encouraging a deeper understanding of identity and the courage to remain true to oneself amidst external pressures.


This painting is also featured in his book, 'Thought Entropy', available for purchase on Amazon.

  ​As an artist deeply engaged in the exploration of abstract and modern art, I often encounter questions about the differences and connections between these two influential movements. While both abstract art and modern art have left indelible marks on the history of creativity, they represent distinct approaches, philosophies, and periods within the art world. In this post, I’ll guide you through the key differences and connections between abstract art and modern art, helping you understand how these styles continue to influence contemporary artists today.
 
Defining Modern Art:
Modern art is a broad term that encompasses the artistic production from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. It marks a departure from traditional, representational art forms and embraces innovation, experimentation, and the exploration of new ideas. Modern art is often associated with the rise of industrialization, urbanization, and the significant social changes that accompanied these shifts.

Key Characteristics of Modern Art:

• Innovation: Modern artists sought to break away from classical traditions, experimenting with new techniques, materials, and subjects. This period saw the emergence of various art movements, including Impressionism, Cubism, Fauvism, and Surrealism, each pushing the boundaries of what art could be.

• Focus on Individualism: Modern art often emphasized the artist's personal expression and subjective experience. Artists like Vincent van Gogh and Edvard Munch conveyed deep emotional experiences through their work, influencing how art was perceived and created.

• Response to Modernity: Modern art was shaped by the rapidly changing world. Artists responded to technological advancements, industrialization, and urban life, often reflecting the anxieties and excitements of their time.

Examples of Modern Art:

• Pablo Picasso's Les Demoiselles d'Avignon (1907)
• Claude Monet's Impression, Sunrise (1872)
• Salvador Dalí's The Persistence of Memory (1931)

Defining Abstract ArtAbstract art, while often considered a subset of modern art, focuses specifically on the use of color, form, and line to create compositions that do not represent recognizable objects or scenes. Abstract art emerged in the early 20th century as artists sought to express ideas and emotions beyond the constraints of realistic depiction.

Key Characteristics of Abstract Art:

• Non-Representational: Unlike most modern art, which may still depict recognizable subjects, abstract art moves away from representation altogether. The subject matter is often purely conceptual, focusing on the interplay of shapes, colors, and textures.

• Emphasis on Emotion and Intuition: Abstract artists often prioritize emotion, intuition, and the subconscious over rational thought and objective reality. The works of artists like Wassily Kandinsky and Jackson Pollock are known for their ability to evoke emotions through abstract forms and dynamic compositions.

• Exploration of Pure Visual Language: Abstract art is concerned with the fundamental elements of art itself—color, line, form, and texture—rather than with depicting the world as it appears. This exploration of pure visual language allows for a wide range of interpretations and experiences.

Examples of Abstract Art:

• Wassily Kandinsky's Composition VII (1913)
• Piet Mondrian's Broadway Boogie Woogie (1942-43)
• Jackson Pollock's No. 5 (1948)

 Abstract Art vs. Modern Art: Key Differences and Connections

 1. Historical Context and Origins: Modern art emerged in the late 19th century as a response to industrialization and social change, encompassing a wide range of styles and movements. Abstract art, on the other hand, developed in the early 20th century, specifically as a way to explore the non-representational and the purely visual aspects of art. While abstract art is part of the modern art movement, it represents a distinct evolution in the exploration of form and content.

2. Approach to Representation: Modern art includes both representational and non-representational styles. For example, Impressionism, a modern art movement, still depicts recognizable scenes, albeit with a focus on light and atmosphere rather than detailed realism. Abstract art, however, rejects representation entirely, focusing instead on the abstract qualities of line, color, and form.

3. Artistic Intent: Modern art is often concerned with the artist's response to modern life, exploring themes of identity, alienation, and the human experience in an increasingly industrialized world. Abstract art shifts the focus from external realities to internal experiences, emotions, and the subconscious, often without any reference to the outside world.

4. Influence on Contemporary Art: Both modern art and abstract art have had a profound impact on contemporary art. Modern art's emphasis on experimentation and breaking with tradition paved the way for the diverse artistic practices seen today. Abstract art's focus on pure visual language continues to inspire artists who seek to push the boundaries of what art can be.

Conclusion:
​ While abstract art and modern art share a common lineage, they represent different approaches to the artistic exploration of the human experience. Modern art encompasses a broad range of styles and movements that reflect the changing world of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Abstract art, as a more focused subset, delves into the non-representational and the purely visual, offering artists a way to express ideas and emotions beyond the limits of realistic depiction.
 As you continue your journey through the world of art, understanding these distinctions can enhance your appreciation for the rich tapestry of artistic expression that both modern and abstract art offer. Whether you are drawn to the emotive power of abstract compositions or the innovative spirit of modern art, each provides a unique lens through which to view and interpret the world. 

"Path of Privilege" by JFeelgood is a provocative and visually striking mixed media artwork measuring 12x12x4 inches. Crafted on a wooden base, the piece is adorned with luxurious gold leaf and sealed with epoxy resin, creating a glossy, reflective surface that contrasts sharply with the darker themes it explores. The composition features two paintbrushes affixed to the canvas, seemingly in motion, one with black paint on its bristles and the other with white, both dragging a vivid red trail across the golden backdrop.


The imagery is rich with symbolism. The gold leaf represents the opulence and prosperity enjoyed by those in positions of privilege. The contrasting black and white paint on the brushes alludes to racial dynamics, with the red trail signifying the bloodshed and pain borne from institutionalized racism. This stark depiction serves as a visual reminder of the socio-economic advantages historically conferred upon white populations in the United States at the expense of people of color.


JFeelgood’s choice to use paintbrushes as part of the medium highlights the ongoing and active nature of this societal issue. The brushes, moving through gold and red, suggest that the effects of privilege and discrimination are continually being painted onto the canvas of society, shaping the narrative and realities of different communities. The vivid red path underscores the immense cost of this inequality—a path laid in blood and suffering.


"Path of Privilege" challenges viewers to reflect on the systemic injustices that have shaped and continue to influence the socio-economic landscape. It emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts towards promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within societal structures. This powerful piece calls for recognition of the painful legacy of racism and a commitment to fostering a more just and equal future.


This painting is also featured in his book, 'Thought Entropy', available for purchase on Amazon.

"What is Felt?" by JFeelgood is a striking mixed media artwork measuring 20x20x1 inches. This piece features a tree, traditionally painted in vibrant greens and browns, standing on a hill set against a sky of rich purple, maroon, and gold tones. The classical elements of the tree and landscape are interwoven with an explosion of modern abstraction, characterized by dynamic drips of paint in bold colors.


The inspiration for this piece came from JFeelgood’s experience at the interpretative dance performance "Consolation of Chaos" by Corps Multiple, choreographed by Sandie Donzica. The performance explored the complex relationship between the soul and body, depicting two strangers' evolving interaction through various circumstances. Deeply moved by the portrayal of this delicate balance, JFeelgood returned to his studio filled with creative energy.


Drawing from this inspiration, JFeelgood chose to overlay the classical style of the tree with vibrant, dripping colors applied directly from the tubes. These cascading hues of blue, green, pink, and purple contrast sharply against the traditional backdrop, symbolizing the chaotic yet beautiful interplay between the known and the unknown. Just as the dance performance highlighted the intricate dance between soul and body, the layers of dripping paint represent the unseen forces and emotions that overlay and influence our visible world.


This juxtaposition emphasizes that what is visible is only a fragment of the full narrative, much like the soul-body relationship depicted in the dance. The bold, flowing drips suggest that beneath the surface of our structured reality lies a dynamic, unseen world of vibrant possibilities and connections. "What is Felt?" challenges viewers to appreciate the complexity of existence and the unseen threads that weave through our lives, mirroring the profound themes of "Consolation of Chaos."


This painting is also featured in his book, 'Thought Entropy', available for purchase on Amazon.

​ Abstract art, with its freedom from representational constraints, allows artists to explore the raw elements of visual expression—color, shape, line, and texture—without the need to adhere to the literal. However, the success of an abstract piece often hinges on its composition, the underlying structure that guides the viewer’s eye and creates a sense of order, even amidst apparent chaos. Understanding and applying the principles of composition—balance, rhythm, and harmony—can transform an abstract work from a random collection of elements into a compelling visual experience.

 The Foundation of Abstract Art Composition:
 Composition in art refers to the arrangement of visual elements within a work. In abstract art, where the subject matter is non-representational, composition becomes even more crucial. It provides the framework that makes the artwork coherent and engaging. The principles of balance, rhythm, and harmony serve as the backbone of this structure.

1. Balance: Achieving Visual Stability
 Balance in composition is about distributing visual weight across the artwork to create a sense of stability or equilibrium. In abstract art, balance can be achieved in several ways:

• Symmetrical Balance: This is when elements are arranged equally on either side of a central axis, creating a mirror-like effect. While symmetrical balance can lend a sense of order and formality, it can sometimes feel too rigid for abstract art, where fluidity is often desired.

• Asymmetrical Balance: In contrast, asymmetrical balance involves the arrangement of dissimilar elements in a way that still achieves a sense of equilibrium. This is often more dynamic and interesting in abstract compositions, allowing for greater creativity while maintaining visual harmony.

• Radial Balance: This type of balance occurs when elements radiate out from a central point, creating a circular flow. Radial balance can be particularly effective in abstract art, drawing the viewer’s eye into the composition and creating a sense of movement and energy.

Tip: To create balanced compositions in your abstract work, experiment with varying the size, color, and placement of elements. A large, dark shape on one side of the canvas can be balanced by a cluster of smaller, lighter shapes on the other side.

2. Rhythm: Creating Visual Movement
 Rhythm in art refers to the repetition or variation of elements that guide the viewer’s eye through the composition, much like a beat in music. In abstract art, rhythm can be created using repeated shapes, lines, colors, or textures.

• Regular Rhythm: This occurs when the repeated elements are evenly spaced and consistent, creating a steady, predictable flow. Regular rhythm can instill a sense of calm and order in an abstract piece.

• Flowing Rhythm: Flowing rhythm mimics the natural movement of waves or curves, leading the viewer’s eye in a more organic, fluid manner. This type of rhythm is often used in abstract art to evoke a sense of movement and continuity.

• Progressive Rhythm: In progressive rhythm, each repeated element changes slightly in size, color, or shape, leading the viewer’s eye through a gradual transformation. This can create a sense of evolution or unfolding within the composition.

Tip: To enhance rhythm in your abstract pieces, consider how repetition of certain elements can guide the viewer’s journey through the artwork. You might repeat a specific shape or color, varying it slightly with each iteration to build a sense of progression and movement.

3. Harmony: Unifying the Composition
 Harmony in art is about creating a sense of cohesion within a composition, ensuring that all elements work together to form a unified whole. In abstract art, harmony can be achieved through the careful consideration of color palettes, shapes, and textures.

• Color Harmony: Using analogous colors (those next to each other on the color wheel) can create a harmonious and soothing effect in an abstract composition. Conversely, using complementary colors (those opposite each other on the color wheel) can create a dynamic but still cohesive effect when balanced correctly.

• Shape Harmony: Repeating similar shapes or forms can help tie an abstract composition together, providing a visual theme that runs throughout the piece.

• Textural Harmony: Consistent use of textures—whether smooth, rough, soft, or hard—can also contribute to the overall harmony of a composition, making disparate elements feel connected.

Tip: When aiming for harmony in your abstract work, start with a limited color palette or a specific set of shapes. As you build your composition, make sure each new element complements the others, contributing to the overall unity of the piece.

Conclusion:
 Mastering the principles of balance, rhythm, and harmony is essential for any abstract artist seeking to create compelling, visually engaging work. These principles provide the structure that allows for creative expression without descending into chaos, ensuring that even the most abstract compositions resonate with the viewer.
 Abstract art is often seen as a genre of freedom and experimentation, but this freedom does not negate the need for thoughtful composition. By understanding and applying these fundamental principles, you can create abstract art that is not only visually striking but also deeply meaningful. Remember, the power of abstract art lies in its ability to convey emotion and ideas through pure visual form—composition is the key to unlocking that potential.
 As you continue to explore abstract art, let balance, rhythm, and harmony guide your creative process, allowing your intuition to shape your compositions while these principles ensure that your work remains cohesive and impactful.

"Ageless Wonder" by JFeelgood is a mesmerizing mixed media artwork, measuring 20x20x8 inches. This intricate piece is uniquely framed with custom dimensions, where the top and bottom edges extend slightly longer than the parallel sides, giving the frame an intentionally askew appearance. The painting integrates various materials including acrylic, latex, epoxy resin, and gold leaf, and prominently features a tin birdcage set six inches away from the canvas.


The canvas itself has a rich history; it began as a surface for cleaning paintbrushes used in other artworks by JFeelgood over the span of a decade. This gives "Ageless Wonder" a deep, layered texture and a narrative of accumulated creativity. Over time, scraps from other paintings have been incorporated into this canvas, creating an effect where elements appear to drip and cascade over the frame, symbolizing the flow of time and the artist's evolving journey.


The use of gold leaf is a signature element in JFeelgood's work, adding a touch of opulence and timelessness. The shimmering gold contrasts beautifully with the earthy tones and complex textures of the background, highlighting the interplay between the precious and the ordinary. The glossy finish from the epoxy resin enhances the depth and vibrancy of the colors.


At the center of this piece is a rustic, tin birdcage, suspended in front of the canvas. This birdcage serves as a poignant metaphor for the artist’s relationship with his art and audience, symbolizing the delicate balance between freedom and confinement, creativity and constraint. It invites viewers to contemplate the intricate dance between the creator and their creation, and the spaces we inhabit both physically and metaphorically.


"Ageless Wonder" captures the essence of time, transformation, and the enduring beauty of artistic expression. Each brushstroke and material tells a story of resilience and perpetual evolution, making this piece a profound statement on the timeless nature of art and its continuous dialogue with the world.


This painting is also featured in his book, 'Thought Entropy', available for purchase on Amazon.

"Transcend" by JFeelgood is an evocative acrylic painting measuring 20x24x1 inches. The artwork portrays a solitary figure sitting on a dock, gazing at a radiant, swirling orb that dominates the sky. This orb could represent the sun or a personal symbol of profound reflection, such as an inner light or a manifestation of pain. The painting’s deep blue background sets a tranquil scene, evoking a sense of calm and infinity, while the dock and waves below anchor the viewer to the physical world.


The swirling orb, rendered in rich golden and white hues, captures the viewer’s attention as the focal point of the composition. It exudes a powerful energy that contrasts with the calm posture of the seated figure. This juxtaposition suggests a moment of deep introspection, where the observer is contemplating the complexities and dualities of life. The orb’s brilliance symbolizes a beacon of hope, enlightenment, or the intense emotions that one must confront and transcend.


The figure on the dock, painted in subdued, reflective tones, invites viewers to imagine themselves in this meditative state, pondering their own existence and purpose. The gentle ripples of the water and the stillness of the figure underscore the theme of finding peace and clarity amidst the vastness and turmoil of life.


"Transcend" encourages viewers to look inward, to confront and embrace their inner light and darkness, and to emerge stronger and more enlightened. It’s a powerful visual metaphor for personal growth and the journey towards becoming a brighter, more fulfilled version of oneself.


This painting is also featured in his book, 'Thought Entropy', available for purchase on Amazon.