Born and raised in northern Utah, CJ Hales always had art and making as a part of his life. It wasn’t until a few years into college that he was first introduced to oil paint while at Utah State University. Shortly after he took multiple workshops in Helper from Paul Davis, Doug Braithwaite, Lane Bennion and Zachary Proctor. After studying abroad in Germany to finish his BFA in Drawing & Painting. He now lives and paints full time in Helper, studying with Dave Dornan.

ARTIST STATEMENT
My intent is to better understand myself and this life through paint. The time & space within which I work dictates the subject matter, and tools used. Inspired by impressionist masters, as well as American realism and contemporary movements. I’m fascinated with the alchemy of paint and strive to keep the process on the forefront. In doing so, the viewer can converse between the narrative of the subject along with the paint itself. By approaching painting in this way, I strive to expand my knowledge, improve articulation, and captivate a diverse audience.

IMAGES

CJ Hales, “Misdirection,” 2023, oil on panel, 9.5 x 9.5 in.

CJ Hales, “Value in the Basics,” 2023, oil on panel, 9.5 x 9.5 in.

CJ Hales, “Wrangle,” 2023, oil on panel, 26 x 36 in.

CJ Hales, “Tucked In,” 2019, oil on canvas, 32 x 36 in.

CJ Hales, “Determined,” 2023, oil on panel, 7″ x 7″

CJ Hales, “Spark,” 2023, oil on panel, 7″ x 7″

CJ Hales, “Tugboat,” 2023, oil on panel, 12 x 18 in.

CJ Hales, “En Passant,” 2022, oil on panel, 32 x 36 in.

CJ Hales, “Foot Soldier,” 2022, oil on canvas, 12 x 14 in.

CJ Hales, “Central Focus,” 2023, oil on panel, 36 x 26 in.

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