Jaymes Junio: A Tale of Calamity, Recovery and the Transformative Power of Art
‘Tacoma Ave” - Mixed Media on Canvas by Jaymes Junio
I have always believed, somewhat to my own chagrin regarding my own work, that part of what makes a great artist is a great story. One needs the talent and drive, sure, but a good origin story can establish a purpose behind the passion.
During the years that I have been speaking to artists about their work and processes, every now and then, a story emerges that captivates me with its resilience and transformative power.
I recently stumbled upon the artist Jaymes Junio on Instagram, whose work caught my attention, but whose story captured my imagination. Despite his prolific collection of work, Junio’s remarkable artistic journey has unfolded in just a few short years, driven by an unexpected twist of fate and an unyielding passion for artistic expression. His style drew me in, but after he revealed to me the origins of his recently found artistic passion, imbued his work with even more depth and mystery in my eyes.
‘Cherry Ave’- Mixed Media on Canvas by Jaymes Junio
It was a life-altering incident, a brain injury resulting from a skateboarding accident, that set the wheels of artistic exploration in motion for this artist. Despite the challenges and the arduous journey of recovery that followed, Junio’s story is not one of pity but rather an inspiring testament to the transformative power of art. I learned that during the artist's recovery, they stumbled upon a paint pouring video on YouTube, an encounter that sparked an unwavering dedication to the artistic process. From that moment forward, painting became a means of self-discovery, healing, and a way to navigate the complexities of their altered reality.
When viewing Junio’s artist's recent works, one cannot help but draw connections to the influential Basquiat—something that he is aware of. He acknowledges the profound impact Basquiat has had on the landscape of modern art, acknowledging that many artists today pay homage to his artistic legacy. The New York School of Abstract Expressionists, with their layered and emotive canvases, also play a significant role in inspiring the artist's approach.
‘Self-Portrait’- Mixed Media on Canvas by Jaymes Junio
However, Junio was quick to point out that his work is not confined to imitation. He is aware that he is new to the craft and his style will evolve with time. It is a dynamic and evolving entity, shaped by their own experiences and influences. Each painting is an opportunity to build layers upon layers, capturing moments in time and preserving them through color, texture, and form.
One cannot ignore the astounding output this artist has achieved in such a short span of time. Junio explained to me that he feels his artistic process is a delicate dance between planning and spontaneity. Before embarking on a new creation, he takes time to immerse themselves in their studio, contemplating color theory and carefully selecting the palette that will serve as their foundation. From there, the process becomes an organic flow of creative energy, allowing him to surrender to the canvas and embrace the unknown. I imagine this to be a delicate balance between control and surrender that fuels the expressive power within his paintings.
Interestingly, the artist's connection to music provides an additional layer of depth to their artwork. While Junio does not create music himself, he is deeply intertwined with a circle of musicians who surround and inspire him. This crew of musicians and friends are an integral part of his creative process, and the synergy between art and music often finds expression in their collaborative projects. Every six months, the collective organizes a unique event, combining an art show with a listening party, fostering a collective space where both disciplines converge.
‘The Days Go By’- Mixed Media on Canvas by Jaymes Junio
Looking to the future, it is clear that art will continue to play a pivotal role in this Junio’s life. With an unwavering gratitude, he acknowledged the profound impact it has had on his journey, serving as a lifeline during their darkest days. He also expressed an aspiration to dedicate themselves fully to their craft, with a vision to giving back to their community with what he has learned and been given by sharing his story, and inspiring others—particularly young individuals who may identify with his experiences.
So, in my opinion, Jaymes Junio is an artist of a rare breed. New to the craft, sure. Destined for success, who can say? However, he has an unmistakable talent and a compelling origin story that both drives his work and has given him purpose in life—and that is more than most people can claim, artist or not.
