As a teenager, I learned to surf in a beach town called Manasquan on the Jersey Shore. On August 24th, I hosted a solo art show at the historical Algonquin Theatre in the same town. It was a wonderful experience.
This was my first big art show back in my home state since I moved home, and what a welcome I got! It was a packed house full of familiar faces mixed with some new smiles that I hope to see again soon.
After the show, I had an absolute blast with G. Love (of Special Sauce) who put on an acoustic solo show. I painted a piece while he played, which I adore doing. Painting live forces the creative process and doesn’t allow a lot of over-thinking. When I’m in my studio painting more elaborate pieces, I get zoned out to music so even though I was in front of 600+ people, it felt super natural.
The painting was improvised with no sketch or pre-conceived ideas. I enjoy getting lost in the moment. It keeps it fresh and inspired. When G. Love came on stage, I asked him to start it off and he threw down a tag on my empty canvas.
The painting I did on stage already sold. A portion of proceeds I am going to be donating back to the Algonquin Theatre and Surfrider Foundation.
Check out a portfolio of Jay’s art here.
For more info on his surf art: www.JayAlders.com
Follow him on Instagram: @JayAlders
