JONATHAN PINKETT
Jonathan was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on December 27, 1949. He grew up in a family of city and state champion athletes including Olympic boxer Zahir Raheim. He confesses, " I just didn't fit in with my brothers and nephews, I was always into drawing, painting or creating something. Being creative has always been what I am , not what I do". Jonathan attended Penn State University on a painting scholarship. He also studied film making and drawing at the Philadelphia College of Art. Jonathan's work is included in many public and private collections including:
The Philadelphia Museum of Art, The Afro-American Historical Museum, The Marriot Corporation, The NEC Corporation ,Tokyo Japan, President William Clinton and Dr. Nelson Mandela.
"Through his art, Jonathan expresses the many personalities of "everyday people". The primary direction of his work is portraiture, and he chooses contemporary and traditional images from American History and everyday life to express a positive vision of the subjects he selects. His use of shadow and bold strokes contribute to the dramatic presence of his works", Richard Watson, Director of Exhibits, Afro-American Historical and Cultural Museum.
"Jonathan Pinkett's draftsmanship captures personality, character and line while adhering to a strong sense of realism. While best known for drawings in pastel and charcoal, he also works in mixed media. His images are dignified and powerful, reflecting an acute sense of detail", Carol Clark Lawrence, Director Office of Arts and Culture, The City of Philadelphia.
"It is my pleasure to extend my best wishes for your exhibition of charcoal and pastels. We are proud of your achievements as one of the outstanding portraitists in our area. Your talents and creativity were evidenced in your outstanding charcoal and pastel portraiture which portrayed Dr. Nelson Mandela, winner of the 1993 Liberty Medal. We certainly remain grateful for your most generous gift to Dr. Mandela on behalf of the city. Your magnificent portraiture was enthusiastically received by Dr. Mandela, and admired by all present”, Edward G. Rendell, Governor, State of Pennsylvania.
