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