Jay Durrah is a self-taught artist from Western PA who has been sketching since the age of nine. Jay has a B.A. in Political Science from Howard University, Class of 1983. Jay had some formal training at the Corcoran School of Art and the Montpelier Arts Center.
Jay draws portraits mostly starting with the eyes, for he believes they capture the essence of a person’s being. Jay’s style strategically places multiple colors on canvas to create portraits. The use of multiple colors represents the multiracial aspect of humans. Through his art, Jay aims to draw people's attention to the commonalities of humanity.
Jay has showcased his work in museums, galleries, corporate exhibitions, music venues, and art festivals throughout the country. A highlight of his journey was getting selected for a group show at the US Embassy in Rome. Jay had four solo shows: at the Lamar Art Center in Barnesville, GA; Gallery O on H in Washington, DC; The Harlem Coffee Co. in Harlem, NY; and Harmony Hall Art Center in Ft. Washington, MD.
Jay completed several public art projects in the DMV area. During the George Floyd protests, Jay had a mural on display at the National Building Museum, depicting a young Black boy holding a sign that asked, “Am I Next?” His works are held in either private or public collections, both in the US and abroad.
EXPLORE SOME OF JAY DURRAH'S WORK
