I am a Rhode Island-born and based artist whose work is a vibrant reflection of my life’s experiences and inspirations. Growing up in the Ocean State and spending 25 years as a fisherman, I’ve developed a deep connection to nature, the ebb and flow of emotions, and the meditative rhythms of life on the water. These influences, combined with my commitment to keeping an open mind, shape the heart of my art.
My artistic journey began in high school, where I was introduced to the world of creation, and later flourished under the guidance of Cathy Burns at East Greenwich High School, and later at West Virginia Wesleyan College, where I majored in art. Over time, my style has evolved from structured techniques to embracing the freedom of abstract art, often infused with subtle touches of realism. I describe my work as surreal, painted primarily in watercolors, and occasional explorations in oil and photography. My signature approach lies in crafting fresh, non-traditional imagery—complex and multi-faceted compositions that invite viewers to uncover hidden details, much like finding shapes in clouds. Each piece begins with random drawings, allowing patterns and forms to emerge organically, a process that keeps my work wholly original and unpredictable, even to me.
My art has been recognized with an honorable ribbon at the University of Rhode Island and was exhibited for five years at the West Bay Art Gallery, run by Cathy Burns, Elaine Stanley, and myself. Through my paintings, I aim to awaken viewers to the beauty of everyday life, encouraging them to notice the small, often overlooked details that hold profound meaning. My work is an invitation to see the world with fresh eyes, guided by the principles of color, balance, and boundless curiosity.
Explore my portfolio to dive into my surreal visions, and feel free to connect with me to discuss my art or share your own interpretations. For inquiries, contact me at jayresch@gmail.com or use the Contact Page.
The question is, what do we really know, that we haven’t read, heard or been told?
Joseph B. Resch III