Today we’d like to introduce you to David Jester.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I was born in Palm Springs but raised mostly in San Diego. My Great grandfather was the first barber in La Jolla and my grandmother was born there. I’ve been drawing or painting all my life. I received my undergraduate from VCU. I received my MFA from Rutgers University. After school the only real options I could see were in the corporate world. My partner and I had 2 boys to raise and security was an issue. I worked my way up to becoming a Producer at Sony, producing commercial work. I was unhappy and unfulfilled not doing Art, however, and when I was laid off I decided to pursue the career I always felt I was born to do, Art. I’ve been painting full time for 2 years now, and while much poorer I am infinitely happier.
This current work was born after observing how we treat each other or present ourselves online and in apps. It is curious how much the anonymity of online apps allows us to treat each other in ways we would never in person. Social media has changed our sense of community and values to a large degree.
Over this past year I have made some 30 large oil paintings, mostly 48″ x 48″.
Please tell us about your art.
I make large oil paintings on wood. Each is part of a larger narrative, each either an archetype or a specific individual I have met online. At some point, I’d like to publish a book to reveal the entire narrative. I think I am about half way through the image creation for that. I hope eventually to address more diversity and discuss the fine lines between taste and discrimination in the work.
What do you think about conditions for artists today? Has life become easier or harder for artists in recent years? What can cities like ours do to encourage and help art and artists thrive?
The Artist life is hard, in the US in particular I think. It is a daunting task building and Art brand and business. I think Instagram and Facebook have helped a lot though. It’s ironic really that my work examines social media but at the same time receives a broader audience through it. I wish San Diego had a better support system for Artists. I know there are places like Space 4 Art and Studio Door has been a huge help. But Art takes time, money and nurturing to survive.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
Currently the work is on display in Palm Springs at Krave. I have occasional show in or around San Diego and am in a group show in June at One World Trade in NYC. I also sell prints of the work online and sell paintings from my home as well.
Contact Info:
- Address: 4543 32nd Street
San Diego, CA 92116 - Website: www.davidmjester.com
- Email: davidmjester@gmail.com
- Instagram: surejest1121
Image Credit:
David Jester
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