The graffiti-like scribbles, scratches, and primitive colors of Jonni’s work is the controlled chaotic work of an expressionist brought up on Saturday morning cartoons, suggesting deconstructed contour lines and bright, unforgiving primary colors often applied directly from the tube or oversize pastel. Beginning with direct marks, squiggles, and doodles, Jonni reacts and builds up his compositions over time, working with the studio detritus that can build up as a result of working on the floor and from the physical nature of his process – allowing this to become part of his formation of the work. The many references housed in his work – whether intentional or unintentional – seem like a patchwork of Cheatwood’s own autobiography – and the works come across like humorous albeit highly personalized recollections of his life at various times.
Jonni Cheatwood
Cake Sandwich
Mixed media on sewn textiles
“A lot of these pieces were created as a response to some of the emotional challenges that I've experienced in my life, including my ongoing struggle to process loss and grief.
The memories that informed this series were deeply personal, but not all negative. Some of the memories that I revisited while creating these works were happy and joyful. I’m recognizing that even happy memories can be complicated and emotionally tense.” — Jonni Cheatwood
About the artist
Jonni Cheatwood
The graffiti-like scribbles, scratches, and primitive colors of Jonni’s work is the controlled chaotic work of an expressionist brought up on Saturday morning cartoons, suggesting deconstructed contour lines and bright, unforgiving primary colors often applied directly from the tube or oversize pastel. Beginning with direct marks, squiggles, and doodles, Jonni reacts and builds up his compositions over time, working with the studio detritus that can build up as a result of working on the floor and from the physical nature of his process – allowing this to become part of his formation of the work. The many references housed in his work – whether intentional or unintentional – seem like a patchwork of Cheatwood’s own autobiography – and the works come across like humorous albeit highly personalized recollections of his life at various times.
