Chris Jones Jr (1989) is a contemporary oil painter based in Tampa Bay and St. Petersburg,
Florida. His work centers on portraiture and narrative using bold color, layered composition and
photographic reference to explore memory, identity and culture. Working with canvas, linen, wood
panel and other objects, he creates medium to large-scale paintings rooted in his own photography
and lived experiences.
Born and raised in Racine, Wisconsin, Chris spent his childhood drawing the things that caught
his attention often inspired by cartoons and video games from the 90's. As his practice developed
painting became his primary focus and his work grew through sustained attention to portraiture,
personal history and stories that carry across generations.
Oil remains his principal medium while pastels, charcoal, and watercolor have each informed his
experimentation with texture, pop-art motifs, and conceptual layering. Across media his paintings are
known for their energy, vibrancy, and emotional depth.
Chris’s work often begins with questions about the histories and inherited narratives that shape
how people understand themselves and one another. Through research, reflection, photograph and
collaboration he approaches these subjects with care and curiosity making space for continued
learning and conversation for himself and for viewers.
Outside the studio, Chris is an experienced professional custom framer serving artists and
collectors throughout the Tampa Bay area. Committed to creative community and mentorship he has
served as a judge for the NAACP’s ACT-SO youth arts program in 2023, 2024, and 2026. As a
Gallery Specialist/Preparator at Hillsborough College & Creative Arts Mentor and Program
Facilitator with Innovative Academy, he has partnered with high school students on collaborative
projects in creative direction, design thinking and visual storytelling sharing insight into the life of a
working artist.
Events & Accolades

