Self Portrait at Age 33
Jared Fountain
- Sitter: Jared Fountain
- Medium: Oil on Canvas
- Dimensions: 51cm x 61cm
- Representation: This artist represents themselves
About the artwork
Jared Fountain uses traditional techniques to produce contemporary work. He is motivated by the techniques and subject matter of Renaissance and Baroque artists, giving their focus on the big issues of the human condition a contemporary reading.
This self-portrait has an intensity and drama reminiscent of those Renaissance and Baroque portraits. In this brooding image the artist appears to stare deeply into his own soul and to be even contemplating the nature of existence.
The light falls subtly across one side of his face and catches the shine of his earring. The dark background and subdued colouring of his clothes ensure that the focus remain on his face.
Jared created the work “…to mark a milestone of turning 33 years of age which is often seen as a pivotal turning point in life as it is heavy with symbolic significance also being the age of Jesus when he was crucified in the Christian mythology.”
Jared’s practice consists of portraits, and also more narrative works, all planned and executed with patience and precision. This self portrait “…was relatively quick, it took about a month.”
About the artist
Jared Fountain is a self taught artist who is inspired by the old masters, particularly Rembrandt, but also Titian and Velasquez. He remembers seeing their works in books at school, and thinking he wanted to paint like them. He was born in Redcliffe and now works from a studio in Dalby. Jared works predominately in oils. He had his first solo exhibtion at the 19 Karen Gallery on the Gold Coast. His work has featured in prizes and many groups exhibitions, and he is now working towards another solo show.
