Brian Jones — December 3 – 26, 2020

On August 2, 2020 we were devastated to hear that Susanne Jones, the widow of Brian Jones passed away of a rare cancer.  The soul-mate of artist Brian Jones and devoted friend of the gallery, Susanne first met Brian in 1978 when she interviewed him for a newspaper article for the London Free Press.  They married in 1984 and had a full life in Toronto and then Collingwood, collecting toys, antiques and vintage automobiles.

As per Susanne’s wishes, she has trusted the gallery with the last remaining Brian Jones paintings and drawings from her personal collection.  To honour her and Brian’s incredible talent, we are presenting a small exhibition of work in the middle gallery for the month of December.

Featured in the gallery are early “Neighbours” drawings, two small paintings as well as a major portrait of Susanne.

Started in 1981 when Susanne was 26 years of age, the large painting “Susanne Jones” captures an intimate moment of Brian’s then girlfriend and soon to be wife while she sunbathes on vacation in Cape Cod.  At the time, Susanne was a recent Journalism grad from UWO and an arts and entertainment reporter for the London Free Press.  On her lap sits a folded newspaper, hat and oversized reading glasses.  From the gesture of her hands, he conveys the intimacy of the setting as well as the fleeting moment of Susanne resting in the sun.  It is a remarkable painting and exemplifies Brian’s incredible eye for detail. 

Link to Brian Jones’ Artist Page HERE