About

Artist’s Statement

I am fascinated by the potential that is offered through landscape to communicate and address human moods and emotions. Upon observing representations of the natural world, it becomes apparent that our perception of it is anthropomorphic. It’s qualities are described using human terms such as ‘cheerful’, ‘relaxed’, or ‘hostile.’ Similarly, human emotions and circumstances are at times portrayed through language that is normally descriptive of nature. For instance, one could refer to someone who is smiling broadly as ‘beaming,’ or ‘radiant.’ This relationship to humanity is deepened and amplified when the beauty of the natural world is reproduced through the lens of the artist.

In exploring this relationship, my work frequently leans towards the abstract and ambiguous, focusing on space, depth, and atmosphere, rather than specifics. I am, however, also enthralled with the challenge of expressing the ephemeral through the use of a more representational method. I am excited by the idea of pursuing abstraction and representation simultaneously, blurring the distinction between the two. I am also interested in blurring the distinction between painting and printmaking in my own work, as I have found both of these disciplines to offer a distinct set of qualities that can enhance the expression of my ideas. Technical issues such as the use of scale, color, and mark-making are all constantly considered in my work, as their qualities directly effect the visual and emotional presence of a landscape.

As I seek to make landscapes that are visually and emotionally powerful, I find a strong affinity with the Romantic painters of the sublime landscape, such as Turner or Friedrich. Although the aesthetics of my work are heavily influenced by abstract expressionism, it is the concept of the sublime that most eloquently describes the intentions I have for my artwork. A sublime landscape possesses a sense of grandeur, intensity, and importance: It has the ability to make humans feel small, to see their lives with perspective and their troubles as less important.

Most recently, I have been trying to develop a visual language through which I can portray a wide range of emotion – from sadness, anger and violence to calmness, hope, and joy. These latter emotions are more difficult for me. As I am determined to make artwork that has lasting value, I tend to shy away from overly cheerful colors in landscape, as they can feel contrived and trivial. I am convinced, however, that if I can convey joy and hope, in the midst of darker moods, that the work will become truly meaningful.

- Jonathan Goodding, December 2010

About the Blog

I’ve found that upon graduating art school, life leaves very little room for art-making. A year out of college I had a baby on the way, a full time job in web/graphic design, commitments at church, freelance jobs, violin students, and a new home. Needless to say, I didn’t find time to make art unless I made time for it. This blog is a commitment I’ve made to pursue my artwork. Each project is based on an artistic problem I’ve set for myself, and is documented on this site under the ‘Current Project’ tab.

Jonathan lives in Lincoln, Nebraska with his wife Suzanne and two sons Garrison and Oliver. He is a Web and Graphics Designer at LI-COR^® Biosciences, and pursues painting and printmaking as time permits.

Jonathan recieved a Bachelor of Fine Arts with high distinction in studio art at the University of Nebraska, Lincoln in December 2008. He is the recipient of the Thomas P. Coleman Memorial award for Printmaking, and as such, his work “Resonance” is a part of the permanent collection at the Sheldon Art Museum.