Joy 

Jeff Jamison created this oil painting, “Joy,” using traditional materials and techniques. The visible brushstrokes, especially in the lower portion of the composition, reveal the artist's hand at work. The texture and viscosity of oil paint allow for both layering and blending, which Jamison uses to create a sense of depth and luminosity. The way the paint is applied, with each stroke distinct yet contributing to the overall image, speaks to a long history of academic painting. At the same time, its vibrant hues push against the boundaries of realism, creating an expressive portrait. Oil paint, while a traditional medium, carries its own social and economic context. The production and distribution of pigments, the cost of materials, and the time invested in mastering the technique all speak to the artist’s privileged position. By understanding the materials and processes involved, we can appreciate the skill and labor embedded in this painting.