Ross Jones

‘Prized Possessions’ is a painting exploring the intriguing world of collectors. One person’s junk is another’s treasure. With a combination of realism, imagination, and using the trompe l’oeil style, I’ve portrayed a variety of objects that hold sentimental and nostalgic value to their owners.

At first glance, the painting draws attention to the bottom left corner, where a Matchbox 42 Studebaker Estate Station Wagon is displayed. The miniature car, accompanied by a hunter and his loyal dog, evokes memories of childhood playtime.

The Matchbox toys are in contrast with Beswick’s classic flying ducks. The ducks appear to defy gravity as they soar through the sky, yet their shadows anchor them firmly to the wall. One duck has fallen and can be seen in the lake. Perhaps the dog is about to retrieve the duck. Both Hunter and the Dog are on a never-ending quest for their quarry.

A single brass picture hook and silhouette show where the duck hung before its demise. Perhaps the duck will be restored using the Kintsugi technique. This scene hints at the impermanence of objects and the potential for loss.

In this work, I’m paying homage to the original Beswick flying ducks, a collectable series that originated in Stoke-on-Trent. These iconic pieces, created by freelance artist Mr Watkin, were produced in various sizes from 1938 to the early 1970s. By including them in the painting, I’m capturing a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for vintage craftsmanship. The ducks become more than mere objects; they embody a shared history and evoke a connection to the past.

In ‘Prized Possessions’ I invite viewers to reflect on the nature of collecting and the emotional value we attach to objects. It prompts us to consider the fleeting nature of time, the potential for loss, and the possibility of restoration. Through the portrayal of the Matchbox car and the flying ducks, the essence of childhood memories, nostalgia, and the power of sentimentality is evoked. This painting serves as a reminder that our possessions are not merely physical objects but vessels for personal stories, connections, and the passage of time.

-Ross Jones

Ross Jones is a contemporary painter creating works that evoke a heady sense of nostalgia and elevated playfulness.

Working from his studio overlooking the Hauraki Gulf north of Auckland, Jones’ fusion of playful realism incorporates elements of the surreal. Each meticulously devised painting offers hints at various narratives as the artist invites the viewer to engage with his role as storyteller.

“I love the phrase “Don’t let the truth get in the way of a good story,” so as you view my paintings, don’t let your imagination stop you from seeing the bigger picture. How far the journey takes you is entirely up to you.” – Ross Jones

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