WITH TRANSCENDENT canvases harnessing the power of cultural symbolism, the artist speaks to Glass about the way spiritualism and abstraction have moulded his creative hallmark.
Devon Jardin has the confidence to harness the best of an artist’s spirit with relish and depth.
In fact, with his underlying thread of abstraction (case in point: towering canvases that show intriguing figures referred to Guardians, depicted through a host of graphic streaks) and just a hint of psychedelia offsetting the very sensible, DeJardin’s work puts down a marker for a new generation of abstract painters.
He marries a slightly peculiar, chromatically-upright gaze that intertwines spirituality, cultural symbolism and the fictional form, which, he explains, “has become more refined and intentional.” The artist is adroit at using line and colour, which sees him navigating through use a sophisticated colour palette—teamed with chiaroscuro techniques—to model paintings of statues of “a convincing bulk and heft,” as he admits.
Pareidolia at Carl Kostyál by Devon DeJardin
His subjects tend to sit outdoors: most specifically, in landscapes which, in turn, are defined by a dramatic usage of contrasts between dark and light areas. This technical evolution is marked by a deeper integration of spiritual and mystical elements, reflecting his ongoing exploration of the latter.
“The patience required in creating these works mirrors the contemplative nature of spirituality, where each layer and detail contributes to a larger, meditative narrative,” DeJardin tells Glass. “The Guardians are not the result of spontaneity but a deliberate journey of exploration and creation.”
Speaking of creation—and the introspective layer headlining his entire practice—DeJardin aims to spark dialogue about the nature of belief, the power of symbols, and the ways in which art can serve as a bridge between the seen and unseen, the known and the unknown.
Pareidolia at Carl Kostyál by Devon DeJardin
“My goal is to create a profound connection to the universal human experience,” he explains, adding how he wishes for his recent paintings to prompt a reflection on the profound and often unseen forces that shape human existence. His current show, Pareidolia, at Carl Kostyál in Stockholm, showcases this unique blend of influences, inviting viewers to engage with his deeply contemplative and evocative pieces. We grabbed five with the artist below.
On inspiration
“My inspiration comes from a deep exploration of spirituality and the concept of protection. The figures in my work, which I call ‘Guardians,’ embody a sense of watchfulness and resilience. They serve as sentinels safeguarding intangible elements like hope and faith. My study of world religions has provided a rich tapestry of symbols and narratives, allowing me to infuse my art with a sense of the sacred and universal. This exploration invites contemplation and dialogue about the unseen forces that shape our lives.”
Pareidolia at Carl Kostyál by Devon DeJardin
On creative references
“Engaging with the work of artists like Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, Goya, and William Turner have recently enriched my creative process. Their exploration of organic shapes, surreal landscapes and texture resonates with my goal to blend the real with the imagined. These influences help me create a unique visual language that bridges the gap between tradition and innovation, pushing the boundaries of how my Guardians are perceived and experienced.”
On practicalities
“The biggest challenge in preparing for ‘Pareidolia’ was ensuring that the diverse range of works from the past five years cohesively conveyed the themes of pareidolia and guardianship. My artistic process involves a tedious journey from rough sketches to refined drawings, then to digital renderings, and finally to the canvas. This approach allows me to create pieces that feel both mystical and familiar, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the Guardians’ world.”
Pareidolia at Carl Kostyál by Devon DeJardin
On the work process
“Over the past five years, my artistic process has become more refined and intentional. This evolution is marked by a deeper integration of spiritual and mystical elements, reflecting my ongoing exploration of these themes. The patience required in creating these works mirrors the contemplative nature of spirituality, where each layer and detail contributes to a larger, meditative narrative. The Guardians are not the result of spontaneity but a deliberate journey of exploration and creation.”
On pushing boundaries
“In ‘Pareidolia,’ I aim to reconnect with an ancient sense of divine presence. The figures in my work evoke a time when art was a direct message from higher powers, serving as a physical manifestation of their will and presence. By blurring the lines between reality and representation, my art explores the depths of perception and the nature of artistic creation. This approach challenges viewers to find their own interpretations and connections, pushing the boundaries of how we perceive and engage with art.”
Pareidolia at Carl Kostyál by Devon DeJardin
On the message of art as a cultural weapon
“Ultimately, I hope my work encourages introspection and challenges viewers to examine their inner turmoils and beliefs through the lens of the Guardians. By exploring faith in images, representation, and reality, I aim to spark dialogue about the nature of belief, the power of symbols, and the ways in which art can serve as a bridge between the seen and unseen, the known and the unknown. My goal is to create a profound connection to the universal human experience, prompting reflection on the profound and often unseen forces that shape our existence.”
by Chidozie Obasi