About Jonathan Stasko

Jonathan grew up exploring the hills and valleys of Upstate New York. History in the Northeast is as rich as the soil of the valley where he still lives. It wound itself into his childhood fantasies and drawings. He became captivated by historical illustrations, acquiring a keen interest for narrative art. Supported in his passion by his family, he earned both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in art from Pensacola Christian College. There, Jonathan was taught technical excellence- marrying an analytical mindset with creative vision. His artistic development continues by studying 19th century Masters, American illustrators and contemporary artists.

Jonathan’s art is in private and corporate collections across the country and internationally. He is represented by multiple galleries and shows regularly throughout the United States in exhibitions and competitions. In 2012 Jonathan appeared in Southwest Art magazine’s 21 Under 31 issue highlighting young emerging artists. Among other awards, he received the Gold Medal from the Oil Painters of America 24th National Juried Exhibition in 2015.

A fundamental part of Jonathan’s philosophy is that art should be constructive in its purpose. He believes one of art’s virtues is its ability to raise humankind in its understanding of the infinite and deeper in its compassion. In 2011 he joined with nationally notable artists to form an online event benefiting disaster flood relief in his community. Recent paintings helped raise funds to secure a safe, water solution for a Ugandan orphanage. Jonathan has partnered with The American Fallen Soldiers Project, creating portraits to honor and console families of fallen American heroes. He has also joined with Portrait Connection, an organization devoted to providing portraits for families with children facing medical challenges.

History is a second passion for Jonathan and he pursues the study and portrayal of it as a major theme in his work. Through his art, he hopes to present the human side of America's heritage- telling the inspirational stories of moral character and Providential grace that have cultivated the blessings Americans enjoy and that provide guidance for the history being made today.

Additional themes Jonathan continues exploring include the incredible gift of relationships and love through portraiture, the beauty and inspiration of rural New York and Adirondack landscapes, and daily encounters with God’s power and goodness. Jonathan’s desire is to enrich and inspire the lives of those who view his art as he strives to visually communicate truth and love.