Jonathan Gemmell Australian, b. 1989
Overview
Jonathan Gemmell (also known by his studio name, JWG) is a contemporary abstract artist based in Melbourne, Australia, whose vibrant and textural paintings explore the energy, movement, and emotion found in the natural world. Drawing inspiration from oceans, reefs, forests, and skies, Jonathan transforms these experiences into large-scale, immersive compositions that balance bold abstraction with a sense of stillness.
Jonathan’s work is deeply informed by his early life by the Yarra River in Warrandyte, Victoria, where he was introduced to colour and form from a young age. Encouraged by his artistic family, he began painting at the age of five. His later work in landscape design and horticulture has also shaped his aesthetic, providing him with a deep understanding of natural patterns, rhythm, and structure, which now informs his studio practice.
Over the years, Jonathan has developed a signature style of layered, gestural acrylic paintings that evoke light, texture, and depth. His work has been exhibited across Australia and is held in private collections nationally and internationally, appealing to audiences seeking contemporary art that connects to place, energy, and emotion.
Through his art, Jonathan invites viewers to pause and engage with the natural world — whether experiencing the sweeping movement of a forest canopy, the meditative stillness of a reef, or the dynamic play of light across the ocean. His mission is to create works that feel alive, resonate with interior spaces, and connect people with the beauty of their environment.
Works
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