About Tony Java!

Tony Java is the alter-ego of Charlotte artist Jerry Lee Kirk. An exhibiting painter for over 10 years, Jerry's art has always been perceived as being serious, dark, expressionistic and often political. Never one to enjoy being pigeonholed, Jerry decided to create an identity and style of art that was the complete antithesis of what he had done before. Deriving the last name of 'Java' from his love of coffee and using 'Tony' as the first name because it sounds cool,
Jerry, as Tony, began painting bright, whimsical works of art. Basing this new work on his fondness for cartoon strips, comic books and animation, Jerry was able to develop a style that was far removed from the work he normally does. When he first began exhibiting the work in galleries, Jerry presented Tony as a mystery artist whom he represented. He even wrote a fake bio for Tony and talked about the 'legend' that surrounded him. The creation of 'Tony Java' became a work of art unto itself. Few who knew Jerry's typical art guessed that he and Tony were one and the same. Eventually, however, as Tony's art gained popularity and excuses for his whereabouts became thin, speculation began that Jerry and Tony were indeed one and the same. These days, the cat is out of the bag and Jerry is happy to acknowledge the truth. He is content having been able to prove that, while his penchant is for more serious fare, he can also create art that is carefree and positive. Jerry also developed a fondness for the character of Tony and so enjoys the freedom of creating his 'fun' art, that he continues to do so, exhibiting Tony's work on this site and in galleries. At the same time, Jerry continues with the serious art of which he is most known for under his real name. If you're curious, click here to view Jerry Kirk's art; jerrykirk.com.

Philosophy

The art of Tony Java is not about conveying important political or social concerns. The art is about not being serious. The only agenda behind Tony Java's work is an attempt to return to the simplistic joy of art as experienced by the young or the young-at-heart. The art of Tony Java is about line and color and form and bringing a smile to the viewers face. The only concern of Tony Java is to have fun with art! So please... leave your philosophizing at home and enjoy!!

Exhibitions

• 4/06 - Present: Ongoing exhibit at The Boulevard At NoDa, Charlotte, NC

• 2004 - 2005 : Ongoing exhibition at The Cotton Company, Wake Forest, NC

• 2003 - 2004: Ongoing exhibition at Sanctuary Art, NoDa Art District, Charlotte, NC

• 1998 - 2001: Ongoing exhibition at 23 Studio, NoDa Art District, Charlotte, NC

• 11/2001 - 12/200: 'Funhouse' - Wrightnow Gallery, NoDa Art District, Charlotte, NC