August 2024 Artist of the Month Jason Richardson
Artist of the Month
Jason Richardson - Art Builds Empathy
Jason Richardson - Art Builds Empathy
Written by Zooey Korhonen, Western Riverina Arts Communications Officer
Meeting Jason Richardson at Griffith's Pioneer Park Museum is like stepping into a world of stories, both told and untold. Jason's enthusiasm for the museum is palpable as he recounts tales about the park, from the quirky addition of a pizza oven in a drop-log building to the fascinating characters who have shaped its history. Preparing for his final major event at the park, the Bioluminescence Project, Jason reflects on the myriad lessons learned from years of collaborating with diverse artists.
Jason's creative journey has deep roots, inspired largely by his mother, Dawn. Jason tells me about his perplexion over Dawn's operatic lessons, saying, "In hindsight I see how social it is to make art and the opportunities to understand the variety of meanings and practices, whether they're technical or contextual or personal or whatever." Dawn's adventurous spirit and artistic flair exposed him to a world where creativity was celebrated. Her belief that art builds empathy by allowing one to see through another's eyes has resonated with Jason throughout his career. From her seemingly superfluous opera singing lessons to her eclectic taste in music, including Wendy Carlos' "Switched on Bach," Dawn has been a significant influence on Jason's artistic development.
Jason’s resilience and creativity have been bolstered by his supportive family, particularly his partner Jo Roberts. Navigating the often-harsh realities of life with Jo by his side has only deepened his appreciation for the importance of a strong support network. Unable to claim all credit himself Jason tells me that he is "fortunate to have a supporting family, particularly [his] partner Jo Roberts. After being together for more than two decades [he is] sure that many of the ideas attributed to me are the result of her collaboration." From his mother Dawn to Jo and his many artistic collaborators and friends, Jason's resilience is a testament to the power of community and the vital role of loved ones in fostering success.
Jason's creative journey has deep roots, inspired largely by his mother, Dawn. Jason tells me about his perplexion over Dawn's operatic lessons, saying, "In hindsight I see how social it is to make art and the opportunities to understand the variety of meanings and practices, whether they're technical or contextual or personal or whatever." Dawn's adventurous spirit and artistic flair exposed him to a world where creativity was celebrated. Her belief that art builds empathy by allowing one to see through another's eyes has resonated with Jason throughout his career. From her seemingly superfluous opera singing lessons to her eclectic taste in music, including Wendy Carlos' "Switched on Bach," Dawn has been a significant influence on Jason's artistic development.
Jason’s resilience and creativity have been bolstered by his supportive family, particularly his partner Jo Roberts. Navigating the often-harsh realities of life with Jo by his side has only deepened his appreciation for the importance of a strong support network. Unable to claim all credit himself Jason tells me that he is "fortunate to have a supporting family, particularly [his] partner Jo Roberts. After being together for more than two decades [he is] sure that many of the ideas attributed to me are the result of her collaboration." From his mother Dawn to Jo and his many artistic collaborators and friends, Jason's resilience is a testament to the power of community and the vital role of loved ones in fostering success.
Armed with three university degrees and several TAFE certificates, Jason's strong literacy skills have proven invaluable for grant applications and opening doors to opportunities in publishing and curatorial roles. His wide-ranging artistic endeavours have earned him numerous awards, underscoring his versatility and dedication. Jason has curated solo exhibitions at Griffith Regional Art Gallery and Wagga Art Gallery, showcasing his ability to create compelling and diverse artistic experiences.
Currently, Jason is deeply involved in the Haiku Down Under event, where he explores the intersection of short poems and exhibitions. This event highlights the potential of haiku to inspire both visual art and music. Jason's presentation reflects on his exhibitions and collaborations, particularly with musicians in Italy and France, demonstrating the rich, cross-cultural dialogue that haiku can facilitate. You can learn more about this event and Jason's participation here.
In addition, Jason is organising a landmark projection event at the Griffith Pioneer Park Museum on 7 September. This event, part of the Bioluminescence Project, will feature a variety of projection art, bringing an unprecedented scale of visual artistry to the region. Not to be missed, the project, in collaboration with Atlas of Life, focuses on the mesmerising natural phenomenon of bioluminescence and aims to blend art and science in a spectacular display.
Currently, Jason is deeply involved in the Haiku Down Under event, where he explores the intersection of short poems and exhibitions. This event highlights the potential of haiku to inspire both visual art and music. Jason's presentation reflects on his exhibitions and collaborations, particularly with musicians in Italy and France, demonstrating the rich, cross-cultural dialogue that haiku can facilitate. You can learn more about this event and Jason's participation here.
In addition, Jason is organising a landmark projection event at the Griffith Pioneer Park Museum on 7 September. This event, part of the Bioluminescence Project, will feature a variety of projection art, bringing an unprecedented scale of visual artistry to the region. Not to be missed, the project, in collaboration with Atlas of Life, focuses on the mesmerising natural phenomenon of bioluminescence and aims to blend art and science in a spectacular display.
As Jason transitions to pursue a Master of Teaching, he looks forward to a new chapter. Proving that those that can do, teach, Jason’s passion for education and creativity promises to inspire future generations. Highlighting to me the benefits of being an artist in the Riverina, Jason notes the opportunities available due to less competition and the freedom to innovate. He urges fellow artists to embrace their distinctive creative paths and seek collaborative experiences.
Looking for Jason’s various works? You can find his music on bassling.com, his updates on Facebook, and his videos on YouTube and Witchmedia. For writings, visit his blog at ShowcaseJase, and for music downloads, see Bassling on Bandcamp.
Jason’s journey, from a curator to an educator, is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the importance of sharing knowledge. As he moves forward, his story will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence the artistic community in the Riverina and beyond. For now, this writer wishes to leave our readers with Jason’s own words: "Creativity is your human birthright and no one can do self-expression like you. Everyone should have their own creative practise."
Looking for Jason’s various works? You can find his music on bassling.com, his updates on Facebook, and his videos on YouTube and Witchmedia. For writings, visit his blog at ShowcaseJase, and for music downloads, see Bassling on Bandcamp.
Jason’s journey, from a curator to an educator, is a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the importance of sharing knowledge. As he moves forward, his story will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence the artistic community in the Riverina and beyond. For now, this writer wishes to leave our readers with Jason’s own words: "Creativity is your human birthright and no one can do self-expression like you. Everyone should have their own creative practise."
