Artist Fred Jackson is set to open a captivating new exhibit titled “West Chester Discoveries” at the Church Street Gallery on January 9, 2024. The exhibit runs through February 28, 2024, and features approximately 35 oil paintings that explore the often-overlooked alleyways and backyards of West Chester, Pennsylvania. Rather than focusing on the town’s well-known architectural facades, Jackson invites viewers to appreciate the beauty found in these hidden spaces.
Jackson, who hails from King of Prussia, encourages visitors to see the charm in these common locations. “I find my subjects in common places: right under your nose,” he remarked while preparing the exhibit. “West Chester is an interesting little village, and the locals really understand that the alleys behind the main facades are fascinating.” More than half of his featured works depict scenes from West Chester, where his family has deep roots, having grown up on Franklin Street.
Artistic Journey and Creative Process
After spending over 35 years in landscape architecture, Jackson transitioned to full-time painting and now teaches at the Wayne Art Center. He often engages in plein air painting, capturing the essence of locations outdoors, although he also creates works from photographs and sketches, particularly during the winter months. Jackson emphasizes the diversity of interpretations that can arise from the same scene, noting how different artists can express varying moods and perspectives.
“Painting outdoors is a blast for me. I get fired up by everything from wild nature spots to bustling city scenes,” Jackson shared on his website. His energetic approach includes “splashing on bold colors and chasing strong shapes that capture the vibe of each place.” He typically paints in the mornings, dedicating two to three hours to his craft while his creativity is at its peak.
Jackson’s work is characterized by a playful and experimental spirit. “I like to experiment,” he explained. “I have a reasonable knowledge of my paints, tools, and brushes. With them, the painting process becomes a creative and improvisational exploration.” His method often involves a cycle of painting, scraping, and reworking the canvas to uncover the most important elements of the scene.
Exhibit Opening and Gallery Information
The opening reception for “West Chester Discoveries” will take place on January 9 from 5 to 8 p.m. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet Jackson and discuss his artistic vision. The gallery is located at 12 S. Church St. and is open from Wednesday to Saturday between noon and 4 p.m.
Jackson defines the moment a painting is complete as a blend of clarity and intuition. “A painting is finished before it’s done,” he remarked, suggesting that once his intention is clear, further marks are unnecessary. This unique approach to art reflects his belief in the importance of both creativity and the physical process of painting.
Through “West Chester Discoveries,” Fred Jackson not only highlights the lesser-seen aspects of his hometown but also invites audiences to engage with art in a fresh and meaningful way. His work serves as a reminder that beauty can be found in the most unexpected places, waiting to be discovered.
