It is always tough to be reminded how vulnerable we are. No matter how recognized you are, or how talented, or how rich…
About a month ago, I found out that Jeffrey Jones, one of my favorite artists has been hospitalized for the consequences of a long depression and lost everything in the process. His website shows a note explaining how he is now living on welfare, in a community home for the mentally ill.
The news of his depression is not surprising as there were many references to it in the biography prefacing his art book published last year.
What is shocking is the reminder of how easy it is to lose everything you take for granted, including self confidence and creativity.
Jeffrey Jones commented many times that he does not wish to be regarded as particularly talented or put on a pedestal as some type of demi-God. His work speaks for itself. One thing he cannot deny though is how influencial his work as been for other artists. Ashley Wood announced recently on his website the initiative of publishing a tribute to Jeffrey Jones, with art provided by fellow artists and turning over all benefits to Jeffrey Jones.
In the unlikely event my small contribution would be selected, I created this adaptation of one of his drawings as an hommage to the influence his art has on many other artists.