“Created to Create” an Interview with Jonathan Shaw (Yehonatan-art.com)

One of the friends I’ve met on my art journey is an artist whose work is both instantly recognizable and endearing. Working with textures, colors, shapes, line, and smart design, Jonathan Shaw demonstrates a careful and loving approach to his artwork. Paintings are imbued with his unique vision, delving fearlessly into matters of faith, biblical history, and the person of Christ. These subjects are not new to art, having a rich history through the commissions of the church. However, in our modern world it takes a good amount of courage to embrace so fully the subject of religion, especially with the earnestness that Jonathan displays.

Besides the realm of glory, Jonathan’s art goes into wonderfully realized areas of whimsical design, with charming compositions and playful shapes and colors. His is an art that embraces imagination and creativity, being both conceptual and representative. It is always very clear that he has fun with his work, developing a visual language that easily and cheerfully communicates that fun to his audience. All of this is to say that I dig it. That’s probably clear by now.

Soft-spoken and friendly, Jonathan gives off a spark of lively spirit, being quick to smile and engage. His demeanor is often indicating his readiness to listen and enjoy others’ personalities. I was excited to learn a bit more about his process and history with his art.

Adam Kenney: Please introduce yourself.

Jonathan Shaw: My name is Jonathan Shaw and I am a freelance artist. My family had roots in the Colorado Rockies near Aspen but I was predominately raised in the Milwaukee area where I now reside with my wife, Kelsey, and our two young boys. I received my BA in Studio Art with a minor in Art History from Seattle Pacific University in 2010. I enjoy time spent with my wonderful family, mountain biking, grooving to good music, swimming in the beautiful Lake Michigan, being in the great outdoors, exploring the city, gathering with friends, and chatting about scripture.

AK: What are your primary ways of making art?

JS: I am a multidisciplinary artist who works with paint, collage, illustration and a wee bit of design work. The majority of my subject matter involves Biblical narratives and Judeo-Christian themes portrayed playfully with paint and other media.

When I was growing up, my father often traveled to a variety of foreign countries as a documentary filmmaker. I distinctly remember the time he returned from India with intricate woven rugs and blankets, carved wood jewelry boxes, and tiny painted stone animals. I was drawn to the beauty of the patterns, the aromas, and the exotic aesthetic. Experiences like this one from childhood have significantly influenced my stylized approach. Much of my work could be defined as whimsical folk art. I love incorporating patterns and symbols that poetically imbue the artwork with a meaningful message.

AK: How long have you been working with art?

JS: It’s certainly been a good long journey. I’ve been drawing ever since I can remember. My mum jokes that I drew before I spoke. I actually took speech classes with a tutor in Kindergarten and 1st grade because of my delayed verbal communication. I have always been a very meditative and visual processor which has definitely served me well as an artist. Throughout my elementary years, I faithfully drew with colored pencils in a couple of sketchbooks and as the years went on I got a taste for other media such as printmaking, collage, ceramics, jewelry, sculpture, and painting.

Shortly after graduating college in Seattle in 2010, I moved back home to my family’s farm in Wisconsin and focused my time on my art practice. Honestly there wasn’t much to do other than farm work, exploring our 160 acres of fields and forests and creating artwork. Although this season only lasted a year before jumping back into the “work force,” the time has been foundational to both my faith and my creativity.

As a freelance artist, I’ve had the privilege to make my own personal body of work along with a variety of commissions from clients which has included published book illustrations, large scale murals, logo designs, websites, portraits, and collaborative projects. In summation, I’ve been selling artwork and have taken on commissions since 2010 while holding other jobs, but it wasn’t until the beginning of 2021 that I’ve done it full time.

AK: Why did you decide to make art a focus of your life?

JS: I hold a strong conviction that I was created to create. Nothing else grounds me in the present and helps me process life quite like creating art does; it’s very therapeutic for me. So after several years, I finally was able to become a full-time freelance artist. I know that if I looked back on my life and hadn’t used my creative gift to its fullest potential, I would really regret it. So here I am, pursuing my passion one step at a time.

AK: In what ways have you been changed by art?

JS: Art has taught me many valuable lessons and cultivated several beneficial practices in my life. Creating art has taught me patience, critical thinking, how to listen and observe well, and that life is a continual work in progress. Art has also allowed me to learn more about my subject matter whether that be nature, culture, or aspects of scripture.

AK: What is your primary focus when creating art?

JS: My primary focus when creating art involves a process of discovery. I tend to focus a lot on learning more about my subject matter; investigating and meditating on it. Similar to the adrenaline rush that comes from a good descent on the ski slope, creating art has an exhilarating effect for me; both in the discovery aspect and the mystery behind it. This dynamic keeps me coming back for more.

AK: What artists do you look up to or find inspiration in?

JS: I often resonate with the work of several 19th & 20th century painters such as Marc Chagall, Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Paul Cezanne, as well as self-taught folk artists. My favorite among this group is Marc Chagall. I’m fascinated by his whimsical and colorful depictions of Biblical narratives, childhood memories, Jewish practices, and dream-like scenes. I find his work to be so poetic, imaginative and graceful.

AK: How do you stay motivated?

JS: Over the years I’ve come to learn that creating art requires balance and that art is not the end-all-be-all. I’ve discovered that when I am flourishing socially, mentally, physically, and spiritually; creativity flows more effortlessly. Just as important as a well-rounded life, restoking the creative fire through being immersed in others’ artwork is very significant for my motivation as an artist.

Likewise, morning bike rides in the warm months have been very beneficial for me. It allows me to loosen my grip on the day and release any fears that I may be harboring. Reading books on creativity is also very helpful. I’m currently working my way through “Real Artists Don’t Starve” by Jeff Goins. Throughout the year I read Julia Cameron’s daily artist devotional called “The Artist’s Way.” I highly recommend both of those reads.

A big motivation for me lately is being involved at a local gallery where I exhibit my work. It’s been so encouraging to meet other artists and to spur each other on. I am preparing for a solo-exhibition later this year which also keeps me excited and motivated. It’s encouraging to know that my artwork has and will touch people’s lives and that keeps me going.

AK: Do you have any regular rituals that help you keep your focus?

JS: A few things come to mind. Music has always played a significant role in my creative process. I find that tunes help me gain momentum and usher me into a good rhythm. Living a simple, down to earth lifestyle and being “close to the land.” This may look like taking walks with my family, tending to our garden or kayaking down the river. Every once in a while I find it helpful to look at other artists’ work; both contemporary and from the past. This endeavor provides several benefits from feeling a part of a larger community to discovering “resonating voices” that harmonize with my own work. One of my favorite ways to do this is by going to Barnes & Noble and paging through art magazines or better yet, going to a local used-book store and finding old books of artists I like.

AK: In the last year what has made the largest impact on your practice?

JS: I’d say the decision to resign as a mail carrier from the Post Office and taking steps to cultivate my art career full time. Leaving behind my postal job was a big leap of faith for me but it really allowed me to take myself and my artistic calling seriously.

Community has also played an important role for me in this season. Specifically joining an online art mentor group has done wonders; learning new skills, ways of thinking, and professional advice. Along with this online community, being involved at a local gallery and studio has made a large impact (and I mean local; the space is only three blocks north of us). It has been so encouraging to exhibit my work there and to speak with others at its open receptions. I am also currently taking steps to be an artist-in-residence at this studio gallery.

AK: Do you think there is something missing in the “art world”?

JS: Great question. I honestly haven’t thought much on this subject so my thoughts may be a tad undeveloped but I’d say maybe opportunities for up-and-coming artists to find outlets for their young careers to take flight. This could look like galleries exclusively tailored towards emerging artists, more opportunities to learn from veteran professional artists, and various apprenticeships.

AK: What would you like to see more artists do?

JS: Pursuing a creative career can definitely be difficult especially when doing it alone. I’d love to see more artists coming together to encourage and inspire one another. I’m casting a vision in my local area to gather artists to view and discuss works in progress and exhibit artwork together.

AK: Any last keys to your art practice?

JS: I would say, having a renewed mind in Christ is one of the biggest keys for me. This allows me to create out of a place of affirmation, anchoring me in the Father’s love even when discouragement and disappointments come. One way that I remind myself of this is signing my work with the Hebrew translation of my name, Yehonatan, meaning “Yahweh has given.” I consider the ability to create a wonderful gift as well as a collaborative process with my Maker. My hope is that my artwork blesses and inspires others.

AK: Where can people find you?

JS: Folks can find me on my website www.yehonatan-art.com,