Congratulations to artist Jon Rattenbury, our latest ArtResin Winner! Jon is a mixed-media artist currently living in Northern California. He works primarily with acrylics and resin on aluminum, as well as canvas, although he creates many types of art and is always exploring new materials and ideas: "My art captures the beauty of nature with a vibrant use of color and light. I focus on creating dimensional works that immerse viewers in serene landscapes and natural beauty."
Does where you're from or where you currently live influence your work?
Absolutely. Growing up in Northern California, surrounded by beautiful coastlines, forests, and mountains, has greatly influenced my art. The natural beauty here often becomes the subject of my work, and I aim to convey the tranquility I feel in these places.
What's your art background? Are you self-taught or did you study art?
I’m a self-taught artist. I started drawing early in life and eventually worked in stained glass, photo retouching, and the printing business before developing my artistic style.
Are you a full-time artist or do you create around work hours?
I’m fortunate to be a full-time artist and have been for many years. I founded Rattenbury Fine Arts in 2004 and have been able to focus entirely on my art since then.
What do you love about the mediums that you use in your work?
I love the way acrylics and resin interact. Acrylics allow me to play with vibrant colors and light, while resin adds depth and dimension, giving my work a luminous quality.
How did you discover resin?
I discovered resin while experimenting with different ways to enhance the depth in my work. It seemed like a natural fit for creating the dimensionality I was striving for.
How has resin impacted your artwork?
Resin has significantly enhanced my art, adding a glossy aspect that draws viewers into the piece. It helps give my work a life-like quality, almost as if you could step into the scene.
Can you provide a brief rundown of your process?
My process begins with inspiration from nature, whether it’s a place I’ve visited or a scene from my imagination. I start with sketches and color studies before moving on to acrylic painting. I then apply layers of composite aluminum, modeling paste, polymer clay, crushed glass, glass beads as well as other elements to give the piece its signature depth. The process can be quite time-consuming, but it’s worth it for the final effect.
Why do you want to make art? What motivates you to create?
I create because I feel a deep connection to nature and want to share that with others. I’m motivated by the desire to bring a sense of peace and beauty into people’s lives through my work.
Does art help you in other areas of your life?
Yes, art has always been a source of balance and tranquility for me. It’s a way to connect with the world around me and express emotions that are hard to put into words but can be expressed artistically.
What do you hope someone sees or feels when they look at your art?
I hope they feel a sense of peace and inspiration, a connection to nature, and perhaps a sense of wonder at the beauty of the world.
How do you define success as an artist? What does that look and feel like for you?
Success to me is when my art resonates with people, when it moves them or brings them joy. I also consider it a success when I’m able to fully immerse myself in the creative process and push the boundaries of what I can do.
What's your favorite resin tip you'd like to share with our readers?
It’s very important to work in a dust-free environment to keep the resin finish smooth and clear. I also cover the pieces with plexiglass sheets that are raised above them to keep dust off as they cure. This allows me to come back within the first 45 minutes and check for any issues such as dust, hair or bubbles that I can the fix.
Where do you sell your work?
I sell my work through galleries worldwide, including Japan, and I also work with Park West Gallery, appearing at their VIP collector events many times held aboard cruise ships around the world.
Congratulations on your win, Jon!
To see more of Jon's art
Visit his website: rattenburyart.com
follow him on Instagram: @jon_rattenbury
Every month, to celebrate our community of artists, ArtResin will send out a 32 oz kit to two lucky people who have shared the work they've created with ArtResin.
ArtResin: The Original Epoxy For Resin Art.
