The Artist

Jay Anderson

Contemporary fine artist · Royal Oak, Michigan

Portraits that hold time still

BASED IN: Royal Oak, Michigan
MEDIUM: Graphite, oil, mixed media
MATERIALS: Archival, museum-grade
COMMISSIONS: Limited availability

I am a contemporary fine artist based in Royal Oak, Michigan, working in graphite, oil, and mixed media. I believe the human face holds everything, that a single captured moment can pull forward emotions and experiences we all share. My portraits and figurative work are rooted in classical technique while remaining fresh and distinctly contemporary. And while each piece begins with a moment from someone else’s story, it’s finished by the viewer and what’s drawn from within them.

Solo Exhibitions:

Captured Moments
Color Ink Studio
Hazel Park, MI
November 8 – December 21, 2024

Group Shows:

Off-Center
Art that pushes Boundaries
Northville Art Canter, Northville, MI
October 9 – November 1, 2025
1st Place Winner for “Broken Dreams”

Re: Union
2025 Group Retrospective
Maus House Gallery
Hazel Park, MI
November 14 – December 19, 2025

The reference

Every portrait begins with one or more photographic references. The goal is to seek out inspiration that matches the desired emotional impact.

The drawing

Graphite work begins with light lines that guide placement of the art into the planned composition, then gradually building tone through layered mark-making and blending. For mixed media pieces, a finished graphite drawing is established before oil or other media is introduced.

The materials

All works are created using archival materials and mounted to cradled panels using PVA or acrylic medium. Most originals are designed to hang without glass, allowing direct engagement with the surface.

The finish

Each piece is sealed and inspected before leaving the studio. Originals ship professionally packaged with a certificate of authenticity and a note from Jay about the work.

Collect

Explore the portfolio

Original paintings, graphite drawings, and limited edition prints — all available to collect.

View Originals