The natural beauty and mystery of the swamps— an intimate perceptive of the Mississippi Delta landscape— that’s what artist Bill Jackson offers his audience. Though Delta lands are known for their flat, uninspiring views, Bill gives his art a unique vision, drawing his inspiration from the mystery of natural form and an antithesis of dark and light. When admirers see his work, Jackson wants them to appreciate what he sees in the unmistakable beauty of the Delta.Not driven to paint portraits, Bill instead is fascinated by Nature’s face and the hypnotic elixir of the swamps. The all-important reference work allows him to roam the still bayou waters in his kayak, snapping pertinent shots with unmeasured freedom. At times, Jackson arms himself with paints and canvas instead of a camera. To capture the elusive swamp at its most intimate is a great test of his merit, but Bill does not disappoint. The sun’s reflections on green water are translated with fluency as this artist recreates diffused light with magical perfection.
Bill remains tireless in his quest to bring the “wow effect” to canvas. His test for a painting’s merit is simply stated: “Have I captured you? Are you drawn to know more? Have I told a story well enough?” Recreating the elusive essence of these quiet waterways is his primary artistic goal.
Bill strives to give his Delta swamp paintings a personal identity. He aspires to preserve its beauty with a classical, timeless look. Reworking a painting until the story comes alive speaks to the evolution of Bill Jackson as an artist:”I started drawing as a kid because it represented a big challenge. I felt compelled to prove my ability to both myself and others.” As a seasoned artist, Bill still demands creative growth from himself…moving forward, learning new techniques to perfect his craft.