Jeff Schaller: The Freedom to Create and Connect with Art

Jeff Schaller is an artist whose vibrant, nostalgic works have captured the hearts of many. His story is one of transformation—from corporate life to full-time artist—driven by a passion for creativity and the freedom it provides. With over 30 years of experience, Jeff’s journey is an inspiring testament to the power of art and the importance of making personal connections through creativity. In this artist spotlight, we’ll take a closer look at Jeff’s unique perspective on art, the process behind his creations, and how Golden State Art’s products, such as photo mat boards and picture frames, play a vital role in his creative workflow.

A Humble Beginning: The Journey from Corporate to Canvas

Born and raised in the countryside, Jeff Schaller’s early years were far from glamorous. His background, often referred to as humble, was a world away from the art galleries and cultural hubs that would eventually become his professional playground. After high school, Jeff pursued higher education at Beaver College. It wasn’t until later in life that he decided to take the leap and follow his passion for art.

For 30 years, Jeff worked in the corporate world, designing webpages, but he always felt something was missing. That “something” was the urge to create. So, in a bold move, he left his corporate gig behind and transitioned into full-time painting. It’s been a decision he has never regretted. Today, Jeff’s work is a fusion of nostalgia, popular culture, and personal memories, creating pieces that resonate with a wide range of audiences.

The Inspiration Behind the Paintbrush

When asked what inspired him to start his artistic journey, Jeff is candid: "Making art was/is one of the only things I can do well and get paid for it." This straightforward answer reflects his deep-rooted belief in art as a means of personal expression and professional success. What began as a necessity has evolved into a lifelong passion.

For Jeff, the most fulfilling part of being an artist is the incredible freedom it offers. "Being an artist allows me to have tremendous freedom to do and be what I want," he shares. This freedom extends to his ability to travel, meet new people, and build lasting connections. Art, for Jeff, isn’t just about the canvas—it’s about the connections he creates with people who share his love for art.

The Art of Nostalgia: A Love for Pop Culture

When it comes to his favorite subjects, Jeff is all about fun, nostalgia, and cultural icons. From vintage celebrities to quirky cocktails and playful polka dots, Jeff’s work taps into themes that are both recognizable and timeless. “If it’s fun, nostalgic, I’m using it in my composition,” he says.

This lighthearted approach to art allows Jeff to explore different facets of culture, while also bringing joy to his viewers. Whether it’s the playful nature of his subjects or the vibrant colors he uses, Jeff’s paintings are meant to evoke a sense of happiness and familiarity. And that’s exactly what he achieves in every piece he creates.

The Creative Process: Inspiration and Technique

Jeff’s creative process is anything but conventional. While many artists may have a fixed routine, Jeff approaches his work with a sense of spontaneity. He draws inspiration from a variety of sources, including images he finds on the web and in books. “I have folders of images on my desktop that interest me,” he explains. “I’m never sure what I’m going to do with them or how I’m going to compose them, but they are inspirational to peruse.”

This unstructured approach to creativity is what keeps Jeff’s work fresh and exciting. It allows him to blend different influences and ideas into a cohesive piece. For Jeff, the fun lies in the unpredictability of the creative process and the excitement of bringing an idea to life.

Advice for Aspiring Artists

Having spent decades honing his craft, Jeff has valuable advice for aspiring artists and photographers: "Take a business class. Learn about keeping good records and have a little bit of structure in your day. Then learn how to break the rules... not on taxes but in your structured day."

This advice underscores the importance of balancing creativity with practicality. While the art world is often unpredictable, maintaining a level of organization and structure is crucial for long-term success. For Jeff, this balance has allowed him to not only create but also thrive in the competitive world of art.

The Role of Golden State Art in Jeff’s Success

One of the key elements in Jeff’s artistic journey has been the support he receives from Golden State Art. A fellow artist introduced him to the brand, and ever since, Jeff has been using Golden State Art’s products to frame his pieces for art shows and sales.

“The bundle packs of mats, backer, and bags make it so easy,” Jeff says. “I keep it to 2 standard sizes, and my clients love it!” The convenience and quality of Golden State Art’s products have streamlined Jeff’s workflow, allowing him to focus more on his art and less on the logistics of framing and presentation.

Golden State Art’s photo mat boards and picture frames provide the perfect complement to Jeff’s vibrant, visually striking works. The high-quality materials ensure that each piece is framed beautifully, ready for display in galleries, homes, and shows. For Jeff, the products are a game-changer, giving him the professional presentation he needs while saving him valuable time.

A Bright Future for Jeff Schaller

As Jeff continues to create and inspire, his work is sure to remain a beacon of creativity and passion. Whether he’s painting vintage movie stars, iconic cocktails, or playful polka dots, his art reflects his deep love for culture and his desire to connect with others.

Through his partnership with Golden State Art, Jeff has found a brand that shares his commitment to quality and creativity. With the support of Golden State Art’s products, Jeff’s art can reach more people, inspire more connections, and, most importantly, continue to celebrate the freedom of artistic expression.