Kacau 9

About Kacau 9

These contemporary abstract mixed media paintings are inspired by nature.

The evocative abstract compositions of Jay Hodgins are valued by both art critics and collectors in Canada. Hodgins grew up surrounded by art. His mother, a talented artist, also worked as a draughtsperson. Hodgins created art all through high school and dreamed of pursuing it as a career. But, his parents encouraged him to be more practical in his choice of occupation. Following graduation from Ryerson University in Toronto he was able to juggle work and pursue his art. More than twenty years later he continues to work in all three disciplines in his creative life—as an artist, an award winning designer, and as an art director.
The Kacau series is a fine example of Hodgins masterful use of rich, layered colours, and bold gestural brushstrokes that evoke a visceral mood. His dynamic visual language invites contemplation. In this piece, a central ‘cloud’ of bright blue is framed by painterly strokes in hues of gray, black and touches of white. A chocolate brown border anchors the work. The resin coating adds remarkable luminosity and depth. The word, ‘kacau’ is Indonesian for ‘chaos.’

“I emphasize spontaneity and emotional intensity in my work, yet each painting is carefully planned. The story unfolds through the marks I make. Each piece becomes a personal journey.” Jay Hodgins

“Jay’s paintings evoke the feeling of tranquility and stormy chaos at the same time. There is a feeling of solitude of nature without the intrusion of objects that reference time. His painting style emphasizes sophisticated compositions with bursts of colour. They emote a deep talent and artistic confidence.” Petroff Gallery, Toronto

Jay Hodgins was born and raised in London, Ontario. He studied interior design at Toronto’s Ryerson University (now Met U.) obtaining a BA . During the time he spent at Ryerson Hodgins was exposed to a well-rounded arts education including painting and drawing. Following graduation, he worked for a number of prestigious design firms in Canada over a successful career that has spanned more than twenty years. In 2006, he moved to Vancouver and attended the Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design to work on a Masters in Fine Art. There he began to paint in earnest. Returning to Toronto in 2008, he continued to work as a designer while also pursuing his artistic practice. Ray Hodgins works as an artist, an interior designer and an art director today, residing in Toronto. His artwork has been featured in both Canadian national magazines and on television.