Jonathan Levy
Under The Sea
Brooklyn, New York
Jonathan Levy was raised and educated in New York, where he received a degree in Fine Arts from Pratt Institute, in Brooklyn. Not long after, he moved to Maui, Hawaii in search of inspiration, and discovered the source of what was to become his unique and truly inspired form of painting. Pure observation of the world around him opened his eyes to an entirely new perspective. As a result, his work became significantly marked by the patterns and movements that exist in nature, from the mathematical and repetitive design of a flower, to the rhythm and flow of the ocean. Furthermore, as a trained stone carver, Levy’s painting style is deeply influenced by the marbled patterns found within stone. As Levy states, “The elements found in nature are undeniably intriguing. We are all innately, deeply attracted to these foundations.” Once Levy returned to New York, he was determined to share what he had learned. Through his work, he is attempting to reignite an appreciation for all that forms through a natural process. In today’s fast-moving, high-tech world, the splendor of nature, oftentimes, is overshadowed and taken for granted. Levy hopes to refocus the lens of our culture’s attention, to spotlight that which grows, forms and prospers without the intervention of man.
“Frequently, I’ve found myself overlooking the natural beauty of the world due to the distractions inherent within day-to–day life. Many of us become so immersed with possessions and responsibilities that they dominate our view of the landscape before us and create a resistance to embracing our instincts, turning us blind to the flow of nature. Our collective focus on ‘things’ has contributed to a philosophy that is progressively destroying our planet. In my work, through subject matter and process, I attempt to reflect the unpredictable temperament of nature. This beautiful haphazard collision of the elements is found everywhere and is truly inspirational. If we continue to strive to reverse the effects of our global footprints, we can preserve what truly makes our world an extraordinary place.”Jonathan Levy