Holladay artist Jon Jenson’s journey through artistic expression bridges the detailed light and color techniques of Realism, the unblended colors and loose brush strokes of Impressionism, and the “old master” style of glazing layers by applying multiple layers of translucent paint. The glazing technique adds depth and richness to his botanical paintings as he seeks to explore his artistic vision.

Known as a botanical and landscape artist, Jensen has been selected by the Holladay Arts Council as the December 2024 Holladay Artist of the Month, in acknowledgement of his artistic talent and skill as a Realism, Impressionism and Abstract style painter.

In his recent works, Jensen employs a more impressionistic approach to his paintings, applying vivid acrylic paint with less formal lines and structures. He reaches for interference paint to provide a three-dimensional effect, influencing feelings of depth.

“Color is powerful,” Jensen states on his website. “I am drawn to patterns that push light, life, and movement into my art. I often glaze my paintings with multiple layers to intensify and saturate my subjects. I work with a limited set of paint colors and mix them both on and off the pallet. My subject matter and style vary, but my use of color is the common thread that identifies and marks my work.”

From a chance meeting during a local art gallery stroll, Jensen met master artist Sydney Bowman. He studied under Bowman for many years. She emphasized the importance of mastering the fundamentals of art through exploring art mediums such as pencil drawing, charcoal, ink, colored pencils and watercolors and finally oils. Once Jensen had the ability to paint realistically, he took a step into the world of Impressionism but said, “I always walk the impressionism back a step or two to keep the depth and the shape of realism present.”

Jensen grew up in a household filled with artists. His mother was a stained-glass artist and painter while his father was a semi-professional photographer. Despite showing great promise as an emerging artist from a young age, when it came time to choose a college path, Jensen made the conscious decision not to pursue a full-time art career. He completed a degree in computer science at Weber State University, and a minor in electrical engineering technology. In his current technological career, Jensen enjoys exploring the intersection of technology and creativity.

“I’ve always been very creative, but also enamored with technology,” Jensen said. “I see technology as another artistic medium. In my current role in product management, I design how the software will work. It’s a communicative position where I have to do a lot of translation between technical and non-technical people. I need to understand the business and what is trying to be accomplished. This aligns with my passion for creativity.”

Jensen’s work is often compared to Georgia O’Keeffe’s. Although the intentions behind the art is very different, both artists appreciate the use of macro flowers in their paintings. As an avid gardener, Jensen enjoys the beauty and bold colors of various flowers dotting the landscape of his garden. The spring blooming iris is a favorite, and the old-fashioned red tulips, in remembrance of his grandmother’s garden, usually stir a longing to raise a brush to the canvas.

His art has been displayed in many galleries and homes during gallery walks in the Avenues and art shows across the Salt Lake Valley, including the Holladay Fine Art Show. To Jensen, success as an artist means making his art more accessible, creating something people love and connecting them to nature. 

“My work documents the natural world,” Jensen said. “My inspiration comes from the afternoon light sparkling in a stream, newly opened leaves bathed in light, and mountain peaks surrounding my home. Whether in Realism, Impressionism, or more whimsical pieces, my purpose is to remind you that the world is a beautiful place.”

Jensen’s artwork will be on display through December at Holladay City Hall.

To learn more about Jensen’s artwork visit his website at: www.jonjensenart.com/.

If you are interested in nominating a Holladay resident for Artist of the Month visit www.holladayarts.org/suggest-an-artist.