
BackyardKoi

Artist J2ester
& ART
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JJ Burton was born in the Philippines and graduated from the University of Southeastern Philippines with a bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. She works full-time at SCDOT and enjoys painting in her free time. A self-taught impressionist and abstract artist, JJ has loved drawing since the age of seven. During her school years, she participated in art competitions and often shared her artwork as gifts with friends and family.
JJ is also a koi hobbyist and has been breeding and raising koi since 2007. Her passion for koi inspired her to begin painting in 2015, frequently featuring their beauty in her work. She welcomes visitors to explore her gallery and enjoy these vibrant subjects.
Since 2017, JJ’s work has been featured in juried exhibitions, including shows at the South Carolina State Fair. Her art has been exhibited throughout the Columbia area at venues such as Good Life Cafe, Best Mattress at Divine, and Ellen Owens Salon; in West Columbia at Cafe Strudel, DeLucca’s Italian Restaurant, and D&D Breakfast Restaurant; and in Cayce and Lexington at Henry’s Restaurant, Flight Deck, The Haven Coffee House, The Pitter Platter, 14 Carrot, and The Musician Supply. Additional exhibitions include Open Art Studio in Greenville, SC.
JJ is a member of the Trenholm Artists Guild and the Cayce Arts Guild, and a former member of the South Carolina Artists Association.
Artist Statement
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Koi were my first inspiration for painting, along with the many beautiful subjects in this world that spark my creativity. I am especially drawn to water, trees, animals, and anything that conveys movement. I often work with a palette of white, black, blues, and red hues. One of my proudest creations is a series of trees shaped into animals with swamp-like reflections, which I call “Animal Tree.”
I also enjoy experimenting, particularly with abstract painting, which challenges me in new ways. I am fascinated by creating mystical beings and subjects, which sometimes appear throughout my collections.
I paint as a way to explore different realms, soothe my soul, and share that experience with others. There are no words to fully describe the feeling of seeing someone smile or become emotional as they connect with my work. Touching someone’s inner energy is deeply fulfilling, and I will continue to create as long as the universe allows me.
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