ARTIST STATEMENT

The paintings are careful arrangements of my rural Wyoming County surroundings and the items gleaned from its surface. The delicate coexistence between our natural roots and the synthetic fabrications of our species are at the heart of my imagery. The work examines the disconnect that permeates our relationship with the landscape we inhabit. From my daily observations, I seek to construct narrative compositions that directly reflect my specific experiences. My aesthetic choices revolve around finding beauty in an imperfect setting, and uncovering the rich subtleties that often go unnoticed within. Through my intimate connection with the land, I strive to elevate my subject matter from a personal realm to the universal.

BIOGRAPHY

b. 1982, Buffalo, New York. Raised on an old farm in rural Arcade, New York, Daly was immersed in a creative environment since conception. As the son of two painters and the identical twin of a designer, he never considered another path. In 2004 he graduated from Syracuse University, where he was greatly inspired to pursue his passion by the narrative painter, Jerome Witkin. After a brief studio practice in Portland, Oregon, Daly attended the MFA painting program at Boston University. Upon graduation he returned to the Western NY countryside to paint, and to reacquaint himself with the landscape that had shaped him. Over the years, the influence of his father Tom’s paintings, along with the still-life work of Bruce Kurland, have helped to form his direction as a painter. Currently Jonathan lives and paints at his small creek side cabin in Bliss, New York. This remote environment continues to be intimately reflected in his most recent works.

EDUCATION

2008 MFA, Boston University, Boston, MA
2004 BFA, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY