Chicago native Jordan Bell will be the first artist to display his artwork at the newly opened Legacy Tattoo (2828 N. Milwaukee Ave.).
The one-day art show on July 26, simply called, “An Art Show,” will feature pieces ranging in age from three years to just a week old. Bell will be sharing a combination of portraits and full-body images, as well as his favorite piece featuring human tongues.
His work is “emotionally driven,” meaning his pieces represent experiences and feelings he has dealt with throughout his life. Apart from using art as an instrument to process his day to day, Bell’s collection of paint on canvas pieces were inspired by his desire to work with color. As a high school art student, he said he felt that he was “weak” at color, but he feels this collection proves he now has the hang of it. Bell’s artwork also incorporates design elements from anime, street art, and comic book art.
“The mouth is such a pure instrument,” said Bell, reflecting on what inspired him to craft his favorite piece from the show: a large portrait of two people’s tongues intertwining.
Bell is eager to share his work both to reach out to new audiences and to prove his artistic growth to himself. He encourages anyone to stop by and share their thoughts, no matter how random they may be.
“I’m hoping people will just see that I’m for real, [and] I want my art to reach out to somebody,” he said.
Bell met the face of Legacy, Brain Clutter, a few years ago through an old coworker. The two became close and Clutter was excited to help Bell advance his artistic career.
Since “An Art Show” will be held during open hours from 6 to 10 p.m., Clutter asks that any patrons avoid work-stations, especially if an artist is tattooing a client.
After his debut showing at Legacy, Bell hopes to find another space to continue sharing his current collection and to also share future work.
If you would like to offer your space to Bell and learn more about his art, email him at jordan_bell123@yahoo.com. If you would like to show your art at Legacy, email legacytattoochicago@gmail.com.
Featured photo: Courtesy Jordan Bell.
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