Jay Davenport Art
Master of realism and trompe-l'oeil, Jay Davenport's artwork often mistaken for photos are actually detailed paintings!
"Davenport’s paintings are painstakingly detailed and the telling minutiae might be missed upon first glance. Cleverly toying with the viewer, his compositions are conundrums in themselves: photo-enhanced image versus direct observation; real versus imaginary; loving portraiture versus mocking documentation. A recurring theme in Davenport’s work is the personification of animals, which provides a commentary on how modern civilization has humanized domesticated beasts and wildlife to a humorous, but almost absurd, level. It begs the question: who do we treat better, our adored pets or ourselves?" -Collins' Gallery, Orleans, MA
Jay Davenport b. 1972
​ Jay Davenport has always been interested in and excited by fine art, especially, animals and wildlife. With an encouraging push from his grandfather, he began private instructions at an early age. His enthusiasm and education in arts continued as he later earned an Associates Degree in Painting and Illustration. His passion for art led him to complete a four year aprenticeship in Realism and Trompe-l’Oeil.
Jay has participated in many exhibits across the country, some of the awards he has won include, The Bosque Conservatory Silver Medal and numerous awards in Artist Magazine Annual Competition. His passion for art has been illustrated in many publications including 2007 Strokes of Genius, The Best in Drawing. In 2015 Jay won the OPA Animal Award of Excellence, Signature & Associate Division for Keep Your Eye on the Ball.
With his strong foundation in representationalism, Jay’s desire to paint the funny and humorous has materialized in this side of animals and how the different things they do relate to human life. His intention is for the viewer to “step back once in awhile and observe and even laugh at ourselves”.
Jay's work continues to be prevalent as his dedication to the craft reflects the promise of his future. After offering personal instruction in fine art at his studio in Jim Thorpe, PA for many years, Jay now has his art studio in Lehighton, PA.
Education
2001-2005 The Waichulis Studio, Representational Atelier, Naticoke, PA
1996-1999 Luzerne County Community College, Associates Degree of Painting/Illustration, Naticoke, PA
1995-1996 The Art Hatchery with Judith Hatcher
Private Instruction, Bear Creek, PA
1993 Illustrator Joe Smudon, Private Instruction, Philadelphia, PA
1991-1993 Nancy Cathoner, Private Instruction, Hazelton, PA