J Mark Collection 2009

First, I just have to say thank you to my friends and colleagues here at MM. Your inspiration and encouragement has been a tremendous motivation in my Figurative Collection of artworks.

"My paintings intentionally evoke an emotion or stir a memory by looking in a different way, seeing things that they didnt notice before in a new light. Creating timeless art that will continue to inspire long after I am gone" ~

THE MUSE::: if you enjoy what you see... take a moment to lend me your thoughts and ideas. I am open to collaboration and combining the imaginations and talents of an incredible selection of talented individuals at this archive. I think that creating 'timeless images' is a dynamic equation between the artist and the muse. Sometimes it requires the talents of a team of artisans to make a vision become real. It takes both courage and imagination to create unique works of art and I appreciate the hard work that each model brings to the projects.

WE AS ARTISTS::: Within our lifetimes there are only a few vital connections that will be enduring, and iconic. Sometimes we dont realize how important these people are in our lives. Whether it is fate or kismet. These are the moments that we can possess as artisans within the framework of this website, and we are the only ones who can choose our destiny or let it evaporate into thin air. Fortune favors the brave. It is my desire to create great art.

"The creative process is a cocktail of instinct, skill, culture
and a highly creative feverishness. It is a particular state when everything happens very quickly, a mixture of consciousness and unconsciousness, of fear and pleasure; it’s a little like making love, the physical act of love."            ::: Francis Bacon :::

THE TALENTED ::: I am honored to have the chance to work with such a fine selection of enormously talented photographers, world class models, amazing stylists makeup artists and fine artists. Together, we can make amazing images...individually or in a collaborative effort. Timeless images that will impact those who view them.

SCHEDULES:  It is important to recognize that we each have very tight schedules and working relationships with many people around the world. It is very fortunate when a collision of talents occurs and true art is created. I do not expect to work with many models or talents, only a very select few. And for those who I choose to work with, I am deeply grateful for your full focus and attention during our sessions. For all of us... time is of the essence.

ESCORTS::: Escorts are allowed at any session to give the model 100% confidence.  You will be treated with respect and professionalism that you deserve. In reflection, please have that same respect for the studio session and remain invisible and silent. Dont drink all the champaign or eat all the food.

NO SHOWS::: Models should understand that many resources are called into play to create an atmosphere to reflect the theme of each particular photosession. Although you will be the central focus of my work during the short time we have, from one to five other professionals: lighting specialists, makeup artists, stylists and assistants may work during our photo session. What this means is that if you choose to NO SHOW...you will be billed for all of our time including the studio rental. Flakiness will not be tolerated, your schedule must be kept promptly. I cannot stress this enough. Making a film crew wait because you have not planned carefully is not discourteous, it is a billable offense in court. Our contract will specify these terms and a Model Release is standard before we shoot.

Implied NUDITY::: I see so many models claiming they will not do nudes yet show nudes in their portfolios. It makes me smile. We are all born nude. Nudity or the American societies' view of modesty is not the issue, ART is the goal. What I focus on is less the colloquial term of 'implied nudity' but, the elegant and sophisticated essence of the human body and figure that was established by Michelangelo centuries ago. The body is beautiful. Get used to it. If you are really anxious, just bring a G string or thong.... simple solution.

Almost all of the poses that I direct are draped in sumptuous and elegant fabrics and allow the figure to emerge from the shadows illuminated by soft key light. The Renaissance and Baroque periods of history are my inspiration. Timeless, classical compositions are the themes of my paintings.

Please note* Photo reference from the sessions are typically used as a basis for the final oil paintings on canvas.  If you see shots from one of the sessions that you must have in your portfolio, I am open to discussion. Most of the photos leave the face in shadow or are turned away, thus allowing almost total anonymity to the model. In other words, no one will recognize that you posed for the painting... only you. Posing for an Artist is far different than any other photo session in this way. I am very easygoing and will entertain your own ideas and poses during the session, in fact, I encourage your own creativity and  your interaction within the photo session and hope that it results in visuals that are both unexpected and exciting as they unfold.

TFP: I am open to doing TFP if you have some great ideas and we can both find visual solutions for our portfolios. If you decide that you want images from the photoshoot for your own portfolio, you can negotiate your fees accordingly to include my time and energy in providing you with edited Portfolio Quality shots. I (too) will travel to your location if my expenses are paid.  My time is valuable, your time is valuable and I respect that. If you are open to trading your time for mine or for an actual Limited Edition Canvas Print (s/n) from the artwork completed ... we can discuss that option also. Only edited photos will be released to the models, never raw imagery.

**Model Releases are a standard requirement for every photo session.

Epic Places Magazine, Phoenix Home and Garden Magazine, TV Guide, Robb Report Magazine, Nautilus Fitness Magazine, World Life Research Institute, Blixeth Corporation, Lockheed Corporation, Sheraton Hotels International, Apple Computer, Hewlett Packard, The Rolling Stones, Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Winterland Productions, Steve Wozniak US Festivals, PF Changs, Disney Inc. ...
My work is published internationally. My portfolio is licensed on four continents. Current Art Director for Aroyo Films, LLC and working on independent films as well as documentaries and private projects.

Photographers I have worked with~
Ron Contarsy NYC
Andrew Su     LA
Robert Coello  HA
Mike Rodriguez  AZ
* Stephen Perry ( photo ref: Ivory Flame )
Orlando  http://www.orlandoperez.com/...
John Healy  #119602

Models~
angelica silkova  http://www.modelmayhem.com/angelicasilkova

cori d asti    http://www.modelmayhem.com/corianne

tatiana white (hawaii) http://www.modelmayhem.com/tatianawhite

Malia Jones  HA    (Sports Illustrated Model) Surfer Magazine

Kym Heron  CA    (Playboy Cover Model) 24 Hour Nautilus Fitness,

Kathy Ireland (International Model, Sports Illustrated, Vogue, Elle, etc)

Samantha Vander  AZ

Emma Pearl  AZ

Lisa Lolly, Arizona  #1194054

Ivory flame  www.ivoryflame.co.uk
...

Quotes:

"I had an amazing time with John!  He know's when to direct & when to let me be creative, we created wonderful images together, I can't wait to see the painting!"  ~ cori d'Asti/ model/ Oahu, Hawaii

"John's artistic approach well exceeded my standards as a model seeking professional and talented photographers. Working with him was incredibly fun and easy, as he gives plenty of positive reinforcement and is flowing with innovative and creative ideas. ” _~Angelica Silkova Russian Model/artist Oahu, Hawaii

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