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As an ordained Lutheran pastor, I was always fascinated by religious icons; with retirement approaching, and never having had art instruction but wanting to learn, I found myself one day a participant in Jaroslav Andreyov’s Russian icon writing workshop.  The remarkable result of my effort led my wife to ask at what museum shop I had purchased this icon.  Greatly encouraged I began watercolor classes at the Worcester Art Museum followed by opportunities once my wife and I moved to the Cape.

Writing Russian icons involves egg tempera; its luminosity encouraged me to experiment with this medium on other subjects.  I also use oil and occasionally acrylic on land- and seascapes as well as figures and abstracts.  While in Mexico for winter breaks, I take instruction from Efron Gonzalez, one of Mexico’s leading oil painters.   Amazing colors and rich colonial history lives itself out on local streets in some Mexican towns which have led me to have fun doing freehand pen and ink sketches.  This experience led to my being a local instructor in Manzanillo, teaching local artists in pen and ink with watercolor.

Jay’s artwork is on display and may be purchased during the summer at the Guild of Chatham Painters, Thursday – Saturday, 10 -5:30, Congregational Church, as well as at the artist’s home studio.