Ocean Jones of Mariposa creates mixed media art that combines natural and recycled elements. Her deep connection with nature and the love of writing, photography, art and books developed during her childhood in the central San Joaquin Valley. This led her on a journey that included every aspect of bookmaking - from typesetting to calligraphy to poetry, papermaking and bindery in addition to publishing and graphic design.
(Pictured left): Ocean Jones with her art piece 'Raven Song' (18" across x 9" high), this nest is composed of woven grape vines, rusted chicken wire, bark covered wire, assorted mosses, feathers, shredded poetry, unique yarns, abalone shells, silver tone and crystal beads, original calligraphic poetry, and 5 handmade and imported paper Heart eggs representing the 5 elements: earth, air, fire, water, and art.
She continues using these skills today combining natural and recycled elements in addition to other unique ephemera. Ocean’s written poetry can be seen as the background for some of her framed pieces as well as shredded then woven beautifully into heart ornaments and spirit nests. She incorporates feathers, beads, fibers and magic charms as embellishments. Her digital mandalas feature photographs of flowers and plants she has grown or those found on her property. Additional works include Mariposa handmade paper objects, butterfly books, wall art, feather art, cards, celebration scarves, and more.
Her education at UC Berkeley and UC Santa Cruz enriched her life and inspired her path even further. As a result, she discovered the joys and challenges of teaching for twenty-five years. This included creating and directing the high school Valley Voices Poetry Program for ten years.
Now retired, Ocean creates her sacred gifts to share with you. Colorful, whimsical, soulful - may they find their way into your heart.
Her work can be found at her home studio in Mariposa - Ocean Art, Ridgeline Gallery and Gifts in Mariposa, and Williams West Gallery in Oakhurst. Go to the Ocean Art Facebook page for more info.
'Click' for more Sierra Art Trails info.: Enjoy the 15th Annual Sierra Art Trails Yosemite Foothills Open Studio Tour September 29 - October 1, 2017 & Sierra Art Trails Preview Reception at Gallery Row in Oakhurst Set for Saturday, September 23, 2017
 "You Can't Buy Love" |
 "In the Mood" |
See video below of Ocean and her artwork from 2016 Sierra Art Trails.