About the Artist

 J.R. Monks is a contemporary visual storyteller of the West.  He works both directly in the field and in his studio, and strives to be honest and bold in his approach creating images that speak to the beauty, grit, and spectacle of the Western United States.  J.R. is a 4th generation Colorado rancher, and  maintains a studio in his small hometown on the eastern plains near the ranch where he was born and continues to live on. Ranching and rural life are still a very important part of his life. 

J.R. feels a deep connection to the landscape and those who live closely in harmony with her, and his art is a humble homage to the infinite complexity of nature. The landscape and the diverse animal life are the bedrock of his creative interests. Despite a lifetime's sojourn in the West he considers himself a stranger in a strange land, an observer of an incredibly powerful place filled with history and stories. He simplifies what is perceived to be reality and creates paintings which are derived from an emotional response to the raw beauty, power, serenity, and complexity of his subjects.  

 "I  find inspiration in the land and those that live among the natural rhythms.  Field work is critical to my creative process.  I work in the field for the experiences, to immerse myself in the wilderness, and to become intimately familiar with my subjects. The experience of painting in the field translate my passion for the natural world. 

His paintings are marked by bold brush work, strong design, expressive color choices, and a unique sense of light. J.R. completes many watercolors and drawings prior to each painting emerging from his studio. Many collectors are attracted to the color and constructive style of his paintings. J.R. points out that while all painting is an abstraction he thoroughly enjoys using color to not only define form but perhaps more importantly to express emotion. Interlocking shapes and an intrinsic design sensibility are hallmarks of his work.

J.R. has always seen his West in a unique fashion and over several decades has naturally found his way to use the medium of paint.. "I look to honor the rich history of paintings of the West but I celebrate my own time.  J.R. states, "Everyday that I have standing in front of my subjects observing and trying to capture the essence is a privilege and Im simply trying to do justice to the incredible Western culture in which I share my life."   J.R. believes in preserving the rich history of Western culture following in the footsteps of Charles Russell and Remington. He is especially interested in using watercolor to capture the people, critters, and places of the West.

J.R. is proud to have his award winning and sought after work represented by several galleries throughout the west, and his work has found homes in numerous private, corporate and museum collections.  He is a Signature member of the Montana and Colorado Watercolor Societies. His work is regularly juried into top shows across the country including the Red River Show, Montana Watercolor Society, Colorado Watercolor Society, The Charlie Russell Miniature Roundup, The Bosque Art Classic, San Diego Watercolor International Show among  many others. J.R. recently was honored with 1st place in the annual Colorado Watercolor Society 2024 juried show. Sharing his knowledge of painting is an important part of his professional life and he enjoys teaching workshops across the country and for organizations like the Denver Art Museum.