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Opening reception for Watercolors, by Jonathan Lisonbee, where he will discuss the process and techniques he uses for his art. Exhibit runs from January 12–March 13, 2026.https://events.slcpl.org/event/15103593
Artist's Statement:
Jonathan Lisonbee has been inspired by the classical watercolor masters as well as contemporary Utah watercolor artists such as Roland Lee and Carl Purcell.
He studied watercolor at Dixie State College under art instructor Melanie Scott. He also attended workshops with Roland Lee, Carl Purcell and Al Rounds. He was, and still is, striving to demonstrate in his own work the traditional elements of art identified in classic compositions.
Less important than styles or creative techniques are simply creating good paintings that follow the principles of design, composition and value and hopefully conveys an emotional connection for the viewer. Lisonbee only paints original artwork from places where he’s been often on-site or from photographs taken.
Lisonbee makes art to be hung on walls and enjoyed. Many of his works hang permanently in homes, businesses, national park visitors centers and galleries. He loves when people recognize a place from a painting where they have visited before, or are inspired to want to visit a place because of the magic of the painting.
Artist's Bio:
Jonathan Lisonbee was born in 1980 in the small farming community of Scipio, UT. From an early age he loved to draw.
He graduated from Millard High School in 1998, and continued on to Dixie State College in St. George, UT where he studied fine arts.
After graduating from Dixie with an Associate of Art degree, he was accepted into the prestigious Art Institute where he eventually graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Graphic Design.
He worked for over 20 years as a graphic designer, illustrated 6 children's books, and had photography and illustrations featured in several print magazines and online publications. He worked for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) creating interpretive panels, trailhead signs, collateral, and the preservation of National Conservation Areas.
Lisonbee has served as Artist in Residence at two national parks. The first of which was with Padre Island National Seashore, TX, where he spent 4 months painting on the island, rediscovering watercolor, and reconnecting with nature. Five of his original works remain in their private collection, as well as artwork that was used for interpretive purposes in the Padre Island Visitors Center. His second artist residency was with Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, WY.
His paintings have been on display all across the Salt Lake Valley, including exhibitions in libraries, museums, and other city buildings.
Aside from painting, Lisonbee enjoys farming, playing guitar, going to rock concerts, participating in most sports that include balancing on a board, bicycling, outdoor nature activities, and spending time with family.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Day-Riverside Branch, Salt Lake City Public Library, 1575 W 1000 N,Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.
