Creativity, music, and humor are my family legacy. Laughter has always been one of my best friends, but I've also had an ongoing love affair with the absurd and bizarre. From early on, all of my artwork was made with a still camera, darkroom, movie camera and guitar. I hadn’t really considered creating anything in other media. At Rhode Island School of Design, I started taking courses in silkscreen, intaglio, and lithography. At first I found drawing and freehand artwork frustrating and I didn’t get much enjoyment from it. I was encouraged to keep doing more by friends and a few brave faculty - they especially liked my nude renderings. The more I did, the more I enjoyed it, gaining confidence with experience and time. I remain grateful for the encouragement I received.
I like to work big. One of my first paintings was 6 feet by 5 feet. I'll sometimes even make frames using leftover wood from home improvement projects. Oil pastels also have a special attraction for me, as they're unique in the way you can blend the colors - the lovely sensuous smear. With their directness and spontaneity, I create most of those while camping or traveling, especially in Mexico. Along with lots of boobs and other anatomically incorrect body parts, my work references animals. Many are pets from my past. Below are a few samples. And all of my work is for sale. Get in touch if you are interested. As linked above, I also have a really nice book available too.
I like to work big. One of my first paintings was 6 feet by 5 feet. I'll sometimes even make frames using leftover wood from home improvement projects. Oil pastels also have a special attraction for me, as they're unique in the way you can blend the colors - the lovely sensuous smear. With their directness and spontaneity, I create most of those while camping or traveling, especially in Mexico. Along with lots of boobs and other anatomically incorrect body parts, my work references animals. Many are pets from my past. Below are a few samples. And all of my work is for sale. Get in touch if you are interested. As linked above, I also have a really nice book available too.
Oil Pastels
Oil paints and supplies are not the most portable things in world. I can't remember how, but I got into oil pastel drawing. I remember using them and loved how you could blend colors to create what I have below. Most of my drawing are 14" x 17" on Bristol paper. All drawings for sale.
All content on this web site is Copyright Jonathan Levin/Chicago 2025. All rights reserved.