The Foundations of a Creative Life

JJ Jiang’s lifelong connection to art was forged during the tumultuous years of China’s Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution (1966–1976). At a time when the world around him was marked by uncertainty and upheaval, drawing, writing, and reading poetry became more than just hobbies; they were a sanctuary that kept him grounded and shielded him from the chaos of the outside world. This early immersion naturally shaped his perspective on life and himself, making art an inseparable part of his identity. JJ was trained as an architect and architectural historian with professional degrees from both the US and China.  He taught  and worked in the architectural industry for decades in China,  Hong Kong and the United States before became a full-time artist about 15 years ago. ​ His background in architecture gives him a deep appreciation for structure, space, design and the relationship between light and form—ideas that continue to find their way into his paintings.

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A Rare National Distinction

JJ’s mastery in oil and watercolor mediums has earned him a respected presence in the American art world. He holds the rare distinction of having his work juried into some of the nation’s most prestigious exhibitions; along the way he has achieved signature member status with the American Watercolor Society (AWS), the National Watercolor Society (NWS) and Oil Painters of America (OPA). Additionally, he is a Master Signature Member of the Watercolor Society of North Carolina (WSNCM). To have earned Signature status in both of the country’s leading watercolor societies and in its premier national organization devoted to oil painting is an uncommon distinction. It is a particularly meaningful part of JJ’s artistic journey, reflecting recognition and achievement across two very different mediums.  A portfolio of his watercolor work has been featured in  The Art of Watercolour Magazine, Issue 54. His work has also appeared in publications such as Watercolor Artist Magazine, Southwest Art Magazine and Fine Art Connoisseur.  He has won numerous awards including the silver medal in Oil Painters of America 2020  Eastern Regional Exhibition.

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Teaching and Community

Beyond the creation of art, sharing his creative passion & beliefs through teaching has been an integral part of JJ’s journey for years. His open and inspiring instruction has been welcomed and much appreciated by students who often return.  Besides offering regular classes in watercolor and oil painting and life drawing opportunities at his studio, JJ has also been invited to teach workshops at a variety of venues, and to judge various exhibits in different parts of the country.​

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JJ currently lives in Cary, North Carolina and is the owner of the Village Art Circle Fine Art Studio in the heart of downtown Cary.   His unique art journey was written and published in the OUR STATE/North Carolina magazine, January 2015 issue.