JJ Adams: The Multifaceted Mixed Media Artist
Roots in South West England and Cape Town
JJ Adams, a mixed media artist of English, Scottish, and Portuguese heritage, hails from the picturesque landscapes of South West England and the vibrant cityscape of Cape Town, South Africa. His diverse cultural background is a wellspring of inspiration for his artistry.
A Creative Visionary Recognized in Vogue & GQ
The Frank Zappa of UK Fine Art
Often likened to the Frank Zappa of the UK Fine Art scene, JJ Adams has left an indelible mark with his creative concoctions. His unique style has drawn attention far and wide, capturing the essence of iconic figures and landmarks while adding his distinctive, imaginative flair.
A Portfolio of Prestigious Collaborations
From Rolls Royce to Bang & Olufsen
JJ Adams has ventured into exclusive collaborations, working alongside esteemed clients like Rolls Royce and Bang & Olufsen. His art has graced the pages of Vogue and GQ, solidifying his reputation as one of the UK’s most discussed and coveted artists. His confident and bold style seamlessly melds new media, pop culture, fine art, digital art, and photography.
Art as a Force for Good
Contributions to Charitable Causes
Beyond his gallery work, JJ Adams has leveraged his artistic talent for philanthropy. His artworks have been instrumental in raising substantial funds for various UK charities. Notably, his small 30x30cm painting fetched over £5000 at auction, benefiting the Willow Foundation. In 2016, his portrait of David Bowie contributed over £3000 to the British Liver Trust. Additionally, his artwork was auctioned in 2018 during the ‘Remembering Audrey Hepburn’ event, raising funds for Lymphoma Action. During the challenging times of the 2020 Coronavirus lockdown, JJ’s artwork raised a remarkable £13,000 for the NHS.
Accolades and Recognition
A Finalist and Shortlist Honoree
JJ Adams’ artistic prowess has earned him notable recognition. He was a finalist for the 2016 Fine Art Trade Guild’s “Best Selling Published Artist” Award and shortlisted for “Artist of the Year 2017.” Furthermore, he secured a finalist spot for the 2019 ‘Most Popular Published Artist’ award.
A Creative Journey Across Continents
From Plymouth to Cape Town
JJ Adams’ journey began as the rebellious son of a Baptist preacher in Plymouth, UK. In the early eighties, he emigrated to Cape Town, South Africa, where he spent his youth around the studio of renowned South African contemporary artist Derric van Rensburg. Here, he developed a profound love for vivid colors and graphic art.
Exploration of Graphic Design and Tattoo Artistry
JJ’s artistic exploration continued as he studied graphic design at Cape College while apprenticing part-time at ‘Wildfire Tattoos,’ a bustling tattoo studio in central Cape Town. His passion for tattoo artistry took root during these formative years.
Return to the UK and Artistic Evolution
After residing in London and facing financial challenges while working in Camden Market, JJ returned to Plymouth. Here, he pursued further education in commercial printing at the Plymouth College of Art and Design. Over several years, he honed his skills as a self-taught graphic designer in the South West of England, delving into professional sign making and experimenting with art during his spare time.
The Emergence of a Full-Fledged Art Career
From Local Gallery Success to London Return
In 2009, after successfully selling several acrylic paintings through a local gallery, JJ realized it was time to return to London and wholeheartedly pursue his art career. In early 2011, utilizing the experience he had gained from his time in the tattoo industry, he produced a series of captivating black and white tattooed celebrity images, setting his artistic journey in motion.
A Multifaceted Artistic Toolkit
Range of Media and Influences
JJ Adams’ artistry encompasses an array of media, including spray painting, hand painting, airbrushing with acrylics, stenciling, screen printing, collage, digital composites, matte painting, photography, and graffiti. His artistic influences span a spectrum, drawing inspiration from the likes of Norman Rockwell, Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Sir Peter Blake, as well as renowned illustration artists such as Drew Struzan, John Alvin, Guy Peelleart, Storm Thorgerson, and lowbrow artists like Coop and Jim Phillips.
Life Beyond Art
Family Life and Hobbies
JJ Adams resides in West Sussex, where he operates from his art studio in a converted Mill in the heart of East Grinstead. He is a devoted husband and father to five children, aged between 4 and 21, and shares his home with two dogs. Beyond art, JJ enjoys spending time in Brighton, attending Comic-Conventions, playing Dungeons & Dragons with his children, and traveling. He also owns a vintage 1980’s VW Campervan, adding to the tapestry of his adventurous life.
JJ Adams, a true artistic polymath, continues to captivate audiences with his unique blend of creativity, making an indelible mark on the world of contemporary art.
