BIOGRAPHY
Jonjo Elliott is a contemporary British artist known for his vibrant and dynamic compositions. His art spans detailed interiors, portraits, landscapes, nature, and still life, and is characterised by a distinctive blend of loose graphic styles, abstract elements, and a keen eye for pattern and shape. The richly coloured worlds he creates invite viewers into familiar yet fantastical scenes to explore the interplay between reality and imagination.
Jonjo’s work represents a personal response to his surroundings and experiences, particularly his travels. A visit to Los Angeles left a lasting impression, with the city’s mid-century modern architecture becoming a central theme in his paintings. These architectural elements are reimagined with a touch of fantasy, creating spaces that feel both real and surreal. Plants are another recurring subject, thanks to a passion that began during a trip to Crete. Fascinated by the shapes and colours of the plants he encountered, he began incorporating them into his paintings, where they serve as symbols of life and growth.
Jonjo’s creative process is highly spontaneous, driven by inspiration from sources including music, literature, conversations, and landscapes. He begins each piece with a foundation wash, followed by layers of vivid colour, adding structural details and the bold black and white lines that define his style. Each striking and deeply personal piece makes a powerful and uplifting focal point.
Although Jonjo always felt a deep connection to art, it wasn’t until later in life that he pursued it as a career. Influenced by the colourful world of surf and skate graphics, comics, and street culture, he enjoyed a successful career in screen printing and photography, where he honed his skills in colour mixing and composition, elements that later became central to his artistic process. His interest in painting eventually led him to study Fine Art at university which was a transformative experience. Immersed in art history, he drew inspiration from iconic figures like Picasso, Hockney, and Basquiat, and he spent countless hours mastering a range of mediums and techniques, which laid the foundation for his distinctive style.
Today, Jonjo’s work is recognised and collected internationally, with exhibitions in Los Angeles, London, New York City, Palm Springs, Brisbane, and beyond. His art has appeared on major platforms like Netflix, further cementing his status as a prominent contemporary artist. Celebrated for its positivity, vibrancy, and striking presence, his work continues to captivate audiences all over the world.