Bio
Vere “Duane” Jones Jr. (1981), is an award-winning conceptual artist, designer and podcast host with degrees from Bermuda College, NSCAD University and Dalhousie University. Duane regularly contributes to creative juries and boards to advocate for artists and marginalized people. He is the co-chair of the Canadian Art Foundation, a member of the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia’s Curatorial committee, is a former member of the NSCAD University Board of Governors and former president of the NSCAD Alumni Association.
Duane is fascinated by how visual language is used to shift culture and change or reinforce prevailing beliefs. His genre-blending creative process requires concept to dictate medium. His practice includes works on paper and canvas, corporate identity, public art and fashion – all brought together by his penchant for employing symbolism, colour and typography to elicit audience responses.
Artist Statement
Duane's practice consists of painting, drawing and graphic work that ranges between figurative, abstract and typographic depending on the intended message. His expressive paintings feature heavy usage of paint that sometimes form sculptural shapes that sit in stark contrast to his minimalist graphic work.
Duane’s art is informed by popular culture and often explores race, gender and sex. His work is an outpouring of his own self-reflection, skepticism and willingness to learn and feel discomfort. His work holds a mirror up to the viewer and sends them on their own journey to self-reflection.
Art Pays Me Podcast