Jon was raised in the midlands of South Carolina, and earned an exercise science degree from Furman University. His passion is creating paintings encompassing a variety of subjects, including, but not limited to, landscapes, portraits, figures, still lifes, and cityscapes, and he also provides illustrations in many genres in book publishing, gaming, editorial, and more.

“My hope is to create art that makes the viewer happy: that a person who sees my work experiences joy, comfort, relaxation, excitement, or perhaps a pleasant memory. Painting is my way of expressing adoration for the natural beauty I see in people, places, and things. I do not attempt the impossible task of reproducing reality via my brushstrokes, but if my goal of reaching the heart of the viewer is achieved by the paint I apply, then I am fulfilled.”

On portraiture:

“A successful portrait should find the intersection of sitter’s likeness and personality. That intersection should manifest as the “feel” of the person. Discovering that elusive blend is an exhilarating challenge that I cannot help but pursue.”

Jon lives and works in Spartanburg, SC alongside his wife Kristen and three of their four children, Charlotte, Adam, and Madeleine. Their oldest, Bethany, is a freshman at the University of Louisville. Some of Jon’s personal interests include history and science education, chess, fine whiskey and cigars, and baseball.