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Q&A With Jay
Curious About the Art or the Artist?
This Questions & Answers page is here to answer common questions about Jay Zinn’s creative process, the meaning behind his work, and what to expect when purchasing or commissioning a piece. Whether you're a first-time collector or a longtime admirer, this page offers insight into the heart and craft behind the scenes.
How do you create your rust art?
How long does it take to do a piece?
Will the steel keep rusting after it's finished?
How can I best display the art in the home?
How long have you been doing this type of art?
Can art collectors commission you to do an art piece for them?
Because I use a variety of techniques, it's difficult to answer this question. On some pieces, I don't do preliminary rusting; I just use the raw stage of the canvas and paint. I rarely use this approach, but it's done in one continuous flow while it's wet. I let it dry, and the rust begins to affect the color. I seal in the color with a clear coat before the rust eats up the color through oxidation. Other pieces will be done in two, three, sometimes four layering stages. Depending on the size of the piece and the technique I use, the range for doing a piece can run from one day to two weeks' worth of layering stages and process.
Sometimes I answer this question with: "Six decades since I first began drawing." I say this because you can't equate hours to the life experience of the artist. You can't equate the hours it takes to create a piece of art to determine its worth. The value is found in the eyes of the buyer and how they're impacted or inspired by the art piece, i.e., how it makes them feel emotionally. The value is in the gift of the artist and what the artist represents to the buyer. The value is in the uniqueness of the art piece and how it stands out among other artistic works in the same genre.
I have steel canvases made to my specifications by a metal fabricator. I create patterns of rust on the steel with a combination of water, acidic elements, and acrylic paint. I then react to what's taking place on the steel as it oxidizes. I let it set over an indefinite period to rust until it reaches the stage of texture and patterns I like. I then proceed with more colors and applied techniques until it hits a place where I feel the piece is finished.
No, it will not because I apply two to three layers of clear coat with hardener; the same finish product used on automobiles. This seals in the rust and keeps out the air to stop the oxidation process. I also paint the back of the steel with black primer finish to arrest oxidation on both sides.
Spotlight fixtures from the ceiling will make the art and the colors "pop." When you invest in my originals, there are unique three-dimensional characteristics in the paintings, including glitter on some pieces. These features are best drawn out by highlighting the image with a spotlight, which heightens the experience of the observer with the art piece.
I've been a published artist since 1990, but began my journey toward abstract art on steel in 2011. When my work was exhibited in the Shain Gallery of Charlotte, the owner referred to me as a "colorist." Ever since I broke away from decorative, detailed art, the surprise of abstract has been my greatest experience. I love it when people see different things in each piece that others do not, including me.
Absolutely! If you live anywhere in the Charlotte area, I'll come help you select the style and colors to
suit the needs of your space. If you're from another location, we can work together through email.
You can contact me at jayzinn24@gmail.com.