Robert C. Jones (1930-2018)

Society pressures artists to camouflage the good time they are having. I come to my studio to paint for the sheer fun of it, for the sheer pleasure of trying to come up with something I’ve never seen before. And if I screw up, I don’t screw up the universe or anyone else’s life. There’s a possibility for freedom in art that doesn’t exist anywhere else in the world, and I love it  – Robert C. Jones

We are very saddened to share with you the news of Bob Jones passing on December 23rd – he will be dearly missed. The gallery has been planning a double exhibit with James Harris Gallery, showing both Bob and wife Fay Jones work which will open in January (James Harris Gallery Jan 9 – Feb 23 / G. Gibson Gallery Jan. 24 – March 2), in honor of both artists. Reception with Fay on January 26th.

Robert C. Jones (1930-2018) attended RISD in the 1950’s (BFA, MS) and studied under the abstract expressionist Hans Hoffman during the summer of 1952. It was at this point in his career when his focus shifted from realism to abstraction. After receiving his BFA from RISD, Jones served in the army from 1953-56. Returning to Providence RI, Jones finished up his graduate work, married fellow artist, Fay Jones, and started a family. In 1960, Robert was offered a teaching position at the University of Washington School of Art, where he continued to work until he retired in 1995.  Seattle artist Robert C. Jones taught at the UW School of Art for 35 years.  He continued his daily studio practice in Seattle through his 88 years of life.

photo of Robert C. Jones, 1998, by John Granen