Jude Gonzalez’s artistic journey is a tapestry woven from the rich experiences of the jungles, deserts, bush and the oceans of home and abroad. While serving in the Australian Army, he discovered a passion for sketching, self-teaching the basics of art amidst the diverse and breathtaking natural landscapes that surrounded him. Transitioning from military life, Jude’s travels across Australia, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe became a canvas for further artistic exploration, solidifying his love for art as a constant companion during his adventures.
During his time in Italy and Spain, Jude embraced the technique of en plein air painting, capturing the vibrancy of local landscapes and cultures. This experience not only deepened his appreciation for the play of light and color but also culminated in a transformative gallery and exhibition study holiday. A highlight of this journey was his visit to the famous Venice Biennale, a global art celebration that ignited his passion for art and inspired him to further refine his own artistic voice.
Though predominantly self-taught, Jude has been fortunate to receive guidance from accomplished artists, particularly from his aunt and mother, who instilled in him an understanding of painting's complexities. Their mentoring emphasized the importance of essential artistic principles while encouraging him to let go of perfectionism in order to create impactful works.
His love for the ocean and the bush is deeply intertwined with his work, fueling his energetic and vibrant abstract impressionism style characterized by dynamic landscapes and ocean scenes. Jude has found his true passion in using water-mixable oil paints, a medium that enables him to create the fluidity and emotion he aims to convey in his art. Each painting invites viewers into a world of color and movement, beckoning them to appreciate the nuances of nature.
At the heart of Jude’s artistic mission is a desire to remind people to pause and relish the beauty of the world around them, especially in our fast-paced lives. He hopes that through his art, others will be encouraged to reconnect with nature and discover moments of tranquility amid bustling daily routines.
Jude has been involved in a number of shared exhibitions previously and is excited to exhibit for the first time at MROS.