Kevin Malcolm Jones, a.k.a. “Malcolm J.” was born in Cleveland Ohio. He is a naturally gifted self-taught artist who started creating art in elementary school. In 2005, he revived his art making career upon arriving in Columbus. After going through a period of being homeless and dealing with internal issues such as depression and chemical dependency, he started sketching.

You can find him on the streets in the Short North Arts District and OSU Campus promoting and sharing his work to the local patrons, galleries and boutique owners. He also received a Neighborhood Partnership grant from the United Way for his Art Mix Project where he offers art activities for both adults and children in Weinland Park.

1. Describe for our readers the most compelling art piece you have made

 My most compelling piece of art up to date is the two-piece that is currently displayed in your domain of the Short North “Day & Night.” One piece of the acrylic painting shows the part of North High Street with the Short North archway during the day, and the other is the same scene at night. It is part of a unique concept that I had introduced to the Columbus Historical Society for a future exhibition.

2. Tell us about your best, most successful, or most fulfilling art show

 The best and most successful art show was my solo exhibition with the Fresh A.I.R. Gallery of Southeast Mental Health Inc., back in 2011. The show was titled: “City Jewels” and consisted of local and far away destinations of well-known and famous landmarks portraying cityscapes.

There was a nice turnout for opening reception and sales. I’ve found success in my drawings of social, political and cityscapes that consist of charcoal, graphite, ink and pastels and occasionally painting with acrylic and watercolor. My artwork is somewhat different than the mainstream, being that I deal with illustrations on the social level. The “Real World” as we live in. I try to bring the conscious level to mind. There’s a need in me to express these issues because they do exist. I want to continue to show my art and share my story with others who have misfortunes and offer inspiration to them.

3. If you could work with any other artists, alive or not, who would it be and why?

 Andy Warhol would be the artist I’d chose to work with because of his eccentric way of creating art. He changed the traditional and conventional form of art into his own style. He challenged that world and conquered it. I applaud the maverick way of rolling with your own dice.

4. How do you integrate art and politics or social justice issues?

 Before I'd started doing cityscape drawings in 2007, I was heavily into artistic illustrations of political and social issues, even since grade school. I still occasionally do drawings on these issues to express the artistic ability within, and to touch the conscience of humanity with urgency and humor. My subject matter was usually inequality and the racial divisions. I hope my art will enlighten people about these issues that so badly need addressed.