The Process.
In a world where stunning photography is embedded in every smartphone, one might call my endeavors a foolhardy attempt. This notion fuels my inspiration and drives me to create the truly unique from the mundane. I did not come up with my process, I discovered it as part of the way my brain works and body operates.
In the midst of a life-changing diagnosis I was confined to bedrest and limited physical exertion for the better part of three years. No joke. Unable to do many of the things that gave my life purpose, I felt lost with no direction to self-worth or fulfillment, all I had was a deep desire to find it. Over the course of those three years, I learned to redefine success, to celebrate the small wins (like getting out of bed to open a window, or putting on socks), and to trust that the little things I do to help myself would form a foundation upon which I could build a fulfilling life. The process was slow and wildly frustrating, but the little wins grew bigger to walking up and down the driveway, then to the end of the street and back, bit by bit, further I went and with each step forward I discovered moments of gratitude that stuck with me when I would fall two steps back. The gratitude was so profound, that I was compelled to capture it as a reminder, so my camera with me.
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One autumn day, I found myself standing before a giant Weeping Willow tree at Edgewater State Park in Cleveland, Ohio. It was cold, wet and gray. The tree, recently lush with green leaves, had thinned out and turned to dull, muted shades of yellow. At the time, it was depressing to me, perhaps because I saw myself reflected in its diminished state. “Jason, there is beauty here, open yourself to finding it.” I looked up and was captivated by how the branches extended out and upward in an organic fashion. “Found it.” This was a moment I had to capture, and this was the moment that led to the discovery of my process.
As I sat at my computer staring at the image of the tree, I was drawn to the idea of turning this otherwise bland, amateurish photo, into something gorgeous. Ignorant to the “dos” and “dont’s” of photo editing, I explored the possibilities of what I could accomplish with a few basic tools. I discovered the ability to manipulate individual shades of light and color, how to pull hidden color out and dial back what was prominent. The various shades of yellow turned into an explosion of vibrant color. I paused to take it in and wept. I had created something, from nothing, that I found to be absolutely beautiful. It needed a name, and the first thing that came to me was what I felt in that moment… “Renewal of My Spirit.”
Suddenly, I didn’t feel quite as lost. I found direction. This is the moment I decided to continue seeking out beauty in the mundane. To look at the everyday with gratitude from a colorful perspective.
My process has evolved and grown over time as I discover new ways to express my gratitude, but each work of art I create begins the same, with a renewal of my spirit.
Print Materials*
*Print materials available are specified per artwork. See artwork description for details.
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1.) Produced in the United States on ChromaLux aluminum with state-of-the-art dye-sublimation printing. The absolute finest metal print quality available.
2.) Made by infusing dyes directly into specially coated aluminum sheets, metal prints are applauded by photographers and artists everywhere for their magical luminescence that must be experienced to truly understand.
2.) 3/4" Inset Silver Metal Frame Mount - the print appears to float away from the wall when hung. Cleat mount included.
3.) On the surface, metal prints are waterproof and scratch resistant for superior durability.
Uniquely durable print with vibrant colors, brilliant luminescent images, and exceptional detail.
ChromaLux metal prints represent a new art medium for preserving photos by infusing dyes directly into specially coated aluminum sheets. Because the artwork is infused into the surface and not on it, my art takes on an almost magical luminescence. The ultra-hard scratch-resistant surface is waterproof/weatherproof and can be cleaned easily with a dry micro-fiber cloth, water or ammonia-free glass cleaner - just avoid direct sunlight as metal with gloss finish can produce a strong glare.
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1.) Somerset Museum Rag: Fine art photo paper crafted in the artisanal heartland of Somerset, England by the esteemed St. Cuthberts Mill, whose legacy in paper-making dates back to 1736.
Somerset is a modern masterpiece that seamlessly intertwines tradition with innovation, epitomizing the pinnacle of contemporary excellence while paying homage to its storied heritage.
This 100% cotton, heavyweight 300gsm paper boasts a sumptuously smooth surface, inviting touch and admiration alike, yet resilient to the rigors of everyday handling.
Somerset Museum Rag stands as a testament to cutting-edge advancements, using the latest in coating technologies to orchestrate a symphony of profound contrasts from the deepest, most velvety blacks to the unparalleled color gamut.
Somerset Museum Rag makes a vibrant image pop to life. Creating a finished piece that is not just an object but a sensory experience.
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Metallic paper uses a patented combination of film and laminate layers resulting in a striking metallic shine. Its unique pearlescent surface, ultra-bright backgrounds, and smooth photo finish draw you into the brilliant world of color I created as if you were looking through a window. Oh, and it will last a lifetime or two (or more)… standard Archival Value of 100 years in home display; 200 years in dark storage.
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Canvas Gallery Wraps are made with a print on Professional Photo Paper bonded onto museum quality canvas, and wrapped around a 1.5" or 2.5" artist's stretcher frame
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CUSTOM ORDERS ONLY - INQUIRE DIRECTLY
1.) Printed on Fujiflex Crystal Archive photographic paper and face mounted behind polished acrylic 2.) The ultra-smooth high gloss surface of Fujiflex features a warmer base tone and extra rich colors. The depth and dimensional quality of Fujiflex is one that almost can’t be described, and begs to be seen firsthand to be believed. This depth helps Fujiflex Crystal Archive Prints reflect light which makes them extra brilliant. Paired with Acrylic, Fujiflex lends a heightened sense of color realism that the viewer feels they can jump into. 3.) Choose from 1/4" or 1/8" thick acrylic (1/4" recommended) 4.) Available in two finishes: high gloss or non-glare 5.) Fujiflex Acrylic Prints come with a ¾” Inset Frame and French Cleat Hanger. When hung, they appear to float off the wall for a modern and sleek style. Optional Security T-Screws can be ordered to keep the print secure in public locations. Alternatively, Fujiflex Acrylic can be ordered without a hanger.
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CUSTOM ORDERS ONLY - INQUIRE DIRECTLY
1.) The purpose of acoustic panels is to reduce reflected sound and dampen the echo and reverberation in a properly treated space.
2.) Ideal for conference rooms and large spaces with hard surfaces
3.) Made with eco-friendly recycled materials, non-toxic, and are NRC or STC tested
4.) Additional customization options to create functional artwork that can be considered "3 dimensional wall sculptures”
Go with Metal.
My art will look fabulous on any of the material options I’ve made available. I wouldn’t offer them if I didn’t love the result. That said, my metal prints are absolutely stunning… like stops-you-dead-in-your-tracks stunning. So, if you ask me, I’d suggest metal. While there’s nothing that competes with seeing it in person, below are videos that demonstrate just how brilliantly beautiful my metal prints are.
View metal artwork in person at City Goods in Ohio City. You can also use the form on the contact page to schedule an appointment to view the work together.