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www.privateairny.com Private Air New York | Winter 2015 46 ART orn and bred in Harlem, 26-year-old Jay West has already become one of the contemporary and modern art world's most respected artists. Perfecting what he calls "Pop Expressionism," an art movement that thrives off innovation, he's known for his creativity and out-of-the- box techniques – like using two models as paintbrushes in a live painting during Art Basel Miami Beach, making the first-ever Bounce Sporting Club Art Basel Edition at HYDE Beach Miami the hottest party of the week. And in addition to launching his own clothing line, Almighty 7, earlier this year, he's collaborated with some of the best names in luxury automotives, music and streetwear: like Alicia Keys, A$AP Rocky, Wale, Porsche, BMW, Footlocker, Puma, Heineken, Corona and Heineken, to name a few. Intrigued already, we caught up with the young visionary to find out how he's always ahead of the art game, and of course, why some of the top names today are banging down his door for a collaboration. Here's what he had to say: What inspires your work? "My work is inspired by life experiences, things that impact my mood – like emotions, or analyzing human behavior." Tell us. Who is Jay West? "Jay West is a vessel of inspiration through creativity. He's an innovator." Why is art important? "Art is important because it's another form of language; a visual language. It communicates something deeper than what's on the surface. It has the power to uplift and connect people from various walks of life." Do you have a mentor in the art world? "I don't think I have a living mentor in the art world, but some of my top favorites are De Kooning, Francis Bacon and Rothko, to name a few." What is it about Pop Expressionism that calls you? "Pop expressionism is the marriage of pop imagery and abstract expression. I like life and appreciate all the beautifully-odd juxtapositions it brings." Does your art have a message to share? "My art is about emotion; it's how we can relate to it in image form. Emotions are something all living things experience, and my work captures them." Describe your creative process. "It starts in my mind, with a lot of brainstorming. I paint in my head first, and see it all the way through, from my current mood. en I figure out what kind of background I'm going to lay down, and add in the subject matter. Of course, music plays a part in the process, too." You've worked with some of the biggest names in music, fashion and auto. Why do you think your art collaborates well with their projects? "I believe my work fits with these brands because there's a like- mindedness in the end result, and there's a synergy there. I have an appreciation for quality and juxtaposition. I like when an artist decorates the interior of a Mercedes, a BMW or a Lamborghini. I love when they create art work for your favorite liquors and spirits, or even design a set for a top fashion brand. It's refreshing; it keeps things fun." Along with these collaborations, you've been featured twice at Art Week Miami, and now, you also have your own clothing line. What's next for Jay West? "A huge solo exhibit in my hometown of New York, and sculpture. Taking my works to the 3D realm, juxtaposing my paintings with sculpture in one show I would love to put on." What keeps you creating? "Having already experienced the wonders of the world art has granted me, without creativity, I know I wouldn't be able to live. So basically, my art keeps me alive." B ART IN LIFE By: Jennifer Agress Harlem-born Pop Expressionist, Jay West, depicts human emotion through avant-garde art.

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