Studio Information
Novato Arts Center
Studio D
parking galore!
About The Artist
I’m an interdisciplinary artist and musician based in Northern California. I work with ceramics, found objects, and mixed media to create sculptures and assemblages. My process is spontaneous, similar to improvisational music, ensuring each piece is original. I’m best known for sculpting narrative clay animals that reflect deep bonds among humans, animals, culture, and nature, often imbued with mystery. Recently, my research has focused on environmental issues related to climate change, sea-level rise, and other water-related issues, demonstrating how art can address urgent concerns. I explore climate change through themes of beauty and aesthetics to raise awareness of environmentalism and promote green initiatives.
Jeff Downing discovered his talent for art while studying music composition at SUNY Purchase in New York. A studio art class there inspired him to pursue a career as a visual artist. He moved to San Francisco, attended the Academy of Art for painting, photography, and sculpture, and later earned an MFA from San Francisco State University. Jeff’s sculptures have been exhibited internationally and have received numerous awards. He is currently a professor at San Francisco State, teaching undergraduate and graduate students across disciplines.
Watercolor, Photography, Mixed Media, Ceramics, Pottery, Sculpture
Novato Arts Center, 781 Hamilton Parkway, Studio E, Novato, CA. The Novato Arts Center at Hamilton Field provides a campus setting for artists at the historic airfield, once known as the “country club” of the Air Force. Its original 1930s Spanish-style architecture includes four buildings with over 60 individual studios for artists working in various media, such as painting, mixed media, ceramics, and sculpture. The center also features a museum space (formerly Marin MOCA), two art galleries, and an art classroom, making it a vital hub for the local arts community in Novato, California.
