Johnathan Ball

Be Like Water

Johnathan Ball has been working for more than 15 years to establish a style of painting that transforms the language of the street into a hybrid form of abstraction and urban realism. From the outset, JBall has sought to interpret his experience of cities that have served as crossroads in his life, from Toronto to New York to Miami the urban experience is a central theme in his work. Not always bound to one genre he also works from iconic images and film stills while purposefully engaging with the rich history of painting since the rise of abstraction in the 1950s. His work provides markers of time, engages the viewer with mood and line tracing the painting providing an artist lead tour of the work. JBall is also well known for his sculptural work. Sculpting anatomical forms using them as an entirely new canvas for his painting. His sculptures are an accent to his painted works, sometimes bringing levity. JBall is an active muralist working with community programs such as Toronto’s Street Art initiative, as well as private commissions. His notable patrons include The Mayor of Toronto, Universal Music, Blattner energy, and IMT Corporation. JBall (born Toronto, ON 1983) studied at York University, Toronto, where he received his Bachelors in Fine Arts degree, graduating with honors. He was also the recipient of the Ontario Arts Council emerging artist award. Johnathan is currently represented by the Liss Gallery in Toronto, Canada, where he lives and works.