
John J. the Light Painter
John J. strives to achieve creation, discovery, and new perspectives through his art. As he explores new mediums and techniques, each piece evolves from the last—crafting immersive worlds that blend whimsy with purpose. His latest works weave in bold, politically charged themes, inviting viewers to not only see the world in a fresh light, but to question the forces shaping it.
Certified Creative
John J. is an artist and visionary known as The Light Painter, with a Bachelor's degree in Moving Image Arts from the College of Santa Fe and a Digital Design degree from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. His work blends traditional techniques with emerging technologies—light, mirrors, silhouettes, and optical illusions—to create immersive, mind-bending experiences. With over 20 years of creative exploration across multiple disciplines, John’s art invites viewers to reconnect with the wonder of creativity while also confronting the realities that threaten it.
Driven by a passion for inclusivity, community, and truth-telling, his mission is to use art as a tool for healing, joy, and awakening—sparking curiosity, resistance, and change.
Artist Statement
I’m John J., also known as The Light Painter, a 21st-century Renaissance Man whose work spans art, technology, and imagination. My mission is simple, yet profound: to bring the healing benefits of creativity to the masses and offer a point of light in a dark world. Through my art, I strive to spark joy, inspire curiosity, and encourage others to explore their own creativity — no matter where they are in their journey. More recently, that mission has expanded to include confronting the darkness itself—through bold, politically charged works that shine a light on injustice and spark deeper dialogue.
From painting and sculpture, to video, graphic design, and theater, I’ve poured myself into various forms of artistic expression for over 20 years. I’ve never been one to stay within the confines of one medium—as someone with ADHD, my curiosity has led me to explore the intersections of art and technology, which is where I’ve found my true calling. Using light, mirrors, silhouettes, and optical illusions, I create immersive, mind-bending pieces that invite the viewer to pause, reflect, and experience the world from a new perspective—sometimes with wonder, and sometimes with a quiet, necessary discomfort.
At the heart of my work is a commitment to inclusivity, joy, and community. I believe art should be a space where everyone feels welcome—where each piece offers a chance to escape, to wonder, and to rediscover the magic of creativity. In more recent works, that magic also includes the power to witness, to protest, and to amplify silenced voices. Whether through immersive installations or one-of-a-kind mixed-media works, I aim to create experiences that leave people with a sense of awe, hope, and awareness.
My creative process is one of experimentation and play. I dedicate time to testing new techniques, materials, and technologies to craft pieces that are not just visually captivating, but also thought-provoking. The blend of traditional artistic methods with modern technology allows me to push the boundaries of what art can do—and how it can make us feel. Sometimes it dazzles, sometimes it disturbs, but always, it invites a deeper look.
My hope as I continue to grow is that my work not only captivates the mind, but also nurtures the spirit and challenges the status quo. I want to invite you into a world where joy and creativity reign—and where truth, even when uncomfortable, has a place to shine. I believe in the transformative power of creativity, not just as escape, but as resistance, connection, and healing. It’s my mission to share that power with the world.
Join me on this journey—whether it’s through my art, my community, or the conversations we have together. Let’s create a space where imagination and courage can thrive, where creativity becomes both sanctuary and spark, and where we can all heal—and act—through the simple, profound act of making something beautiful.
Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.
By Vincent Van Gogh
