Structures- John Boylan

John Boylan (artjeb), creates mixed media artwork often using bright and colorful tones across multiple layers of joyous texture and design. His creativity isn’t tied to any one specific art form or expression. He’s just as happy painting as he is editing photos, entertaining or building a mini-skyscraper out of raisins. Common materials used consist of acrylic and enamel paint, silicone, epoxy resin, photographs, laser print transfers and random scraps of miscellaneous texture.

A lot of John’s content has personal meaning to him, but sometimes it’s just as simple as making him laugh or smile. His work is often inspired by things that most of us have chosen to ignore from our vision over time. Vintage concepts and elements from his personal history are also often explored and help people connect to his work, reminisce and form a closer connection with him. Overall, there is no denying his love for pop culture, the obscure and complete random.

John’s latchkey lifestyle as a child was a key contributor in helping him shape his creative thinking and acquire the skills needed to entertain himself. During his later school years he was highly influenced by the skateboard, punk rock and hip-hop culture that he grew up with. He studied art at Columbia College in Chicago, with a concentration in oil painting, printmaking and experimental photography. You will often see those techniques combined in his work today. He currently lives and works in Peoria, Illinois.