INVERSE Painting

Jason Zahra is a painter and illustrator whose practice is defined by a deliberate resistance to categorization. Guided by a profound sense of freedom of thought, Jason—who also creates under the artist name Zeal—avoids being confined to a single genre, allowing his work to evolve naturally across different media and concepts. If a classification were applied, he identifies principally as a surrealist whose work verges heavily into abstraction, complemented by a distinct penchant for illustration. His artistic output alternates between analytical color theory and deeply emotive, spiritual narratives. In his abstract explorations, such as the "Colour Vision" series, Jason examines the psychological perception of color and the ways in which adjacent hues influence one another. This mindful, theoretical approach exists alongside a surrealist practice that explores faith, transition, and the ethereal, often utilizing light and movement to guide the viewer toward a state of contemplation. Working with a diverse range of materials including oil, acrylic, ink, gesso, and pencil, Jason adapts his technique to the specific requirements of each piece. Whether executing intricate mixed-media illustrations or automated abstract paintings on canvas, his focus remains on the flow of the composition. This technical versatility supports his ability to move fluidly between figurative elements and conceptual forms, maintaining a cohesive thread of intellectual and emotional inquiry.