Jess Black

In a remarkably short period of time, Jess Black has become one of Los Angeles's preeminent abstract artists. His work, which has been compared to and rivals early twentieth century abstract expressionist artists Wassily Kandinsky, Sam Francis and Jean Michel Basquiat, is a testimony to his emerging talent.

Abstract expressionism is the art of painting emotion in a way that the viewer can relate but be unable to articulate. It's almost impossible to explain an emotion, you just feel it. In truth, when practiced by a painter like Jess Black, abstract painting is a powerful creative force. Black understands that art is created with meaning. Jess states, “I can't fabricate something profound, it simply happens on its own. I just happen to be holding the brush.”

Born near Chicago, Jess has lived all over the United States. During his teen years in Des Moines, Black, who is a self-taught artist, was somewhat of a prodigy and became known locally as a muralist with his work published in Better Homes and Gardens and Builder Architect.

After high school Jess moved to New York and was signed by the famed Wilhelmina modeling agency. He quickly booked jobs including campaigns for Benetton and Ralph Lauren with modeling assignments that took him as far as Tokyo, Japan.

Also interested in music, Jess was offered a development deal with Atlantic Records as a recording artist. However, art was never far from his heart and he continued to paint for a growing list of private clients.

In 2010, Jess longed for open space and moved to California. Within a month he had booked his first solo show in downtown Los Angeles. As a result of that show, Jess's art work is prominently featured in a national Blackberry television commercial.

In 2010, Jess formed Jess Black Fine Art with business partner Jeffrey Steck.

Jess believes that when one is fortunate it is necessary to give back.

He has dedicated his time by donating and auctioning his work to benefit local charities, at risk youth, and is preparing for a pictorial and art campaign for PETA.

Jess and his dog, Peggy, plan to remain in Los Angeles and are grateful for the warm reception they have received and the incredible California weather.