The Story Behind PJ the Painter

About the Artist

Art has been my lifelong companion, and I have been grateful that I have been painting full-time as an independent business owner since 2023.

My Journey

From crayons at five to mastering the palette knife today, every chapter of my life has been a part of my artistic journey. A huge influence on my art has been both video games and anime, becoming addicted to fantasy worlds on the NES at age 3.

Education and Early Career

Although I wanted to go to school for art, I was initially not allowed to and instead went to a liberal arts school where I changed my major close to ten times. In the midst of my junior year, I convinced my parents to allow me to pursue a Studio Art degree, at the cost of staying at Wagner College, being 1 of 3 Studio Art graduates in my year. After college, I moved from the bustling streets of New York City to the serene sunsets of Florida. Here, I honed my business savvy and artistic skills at the Wyland Gallery at Disney's Boardwalk (now Promenade Gallery), learning amidst the living legends of today, such as James Coleman, Rodel Gonzalez, and Walfrido Garcia. 

Trials and Transformation

My art was my escape until I grappled with the silent battles against undiagnosed Autism, ADHD, and clinical depression. For six years, I didn't create any art as my life spiraled into a colorless world of "what was expected" and "office culture". It was in this hardship that transformation was forced. I began therapy and sought help. As I began to heal, the drive and joy in creation returned.

Full-Time Dedication

The sudden loss of my mother was the catalyst for change. In the wake of grief and an apathetic workplace, I chose life—the life of my art career. Selling my house, settling debts, and moving in with my dad, I embraced the all-in gamble to be a full-time artist.

Collaborative Impressionism

My craft has since blossomed into a unique style I call “Collaborative Impressionism,” a blend of traditional impressionism and the bold flair of comic book art, painted using both traditional and digital techniques. It’s here, in this dance of contrasts, that my art truly comes to life.

Giving Back

Art is a powerful communicator, a tool for change. I’m committed to making a difference beyond the canvas, dedicating a portion of my earnings every quarter to The Trevor Project, protecting and providing safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ youth.

Thank you for being a part of my journey! When you choose to purchase my art, you're not only supporting my dream, but you're also making a difference for the LGBTQIA+ youth. Together, let's celebrate the beauty of self-expression and the power of art to change lives.