BEHIND THE CANVAS: Meet Artist, Jody Ossman
Each of our hand painted canvas wall art pieces has its own unique story of its inspiration and creation. But do you know the story behind the story? Read on to meet Jody the creative force behind our Canvas Wall Art…
Howard Elliott Director of Design, Jody Ossman
Our multi-talented director of design, Jody Ossman, brings a passion to his work that literally started in his childhood. As an intrepid 13-year-old, he hopped on his bike and headed to the local design center to seek work. After training under both a Dutch master floral designer and the showroom owner in visual merchandising, Jody found himself in charge of the showroom layout, residential and commercial design clients, plus of all floral designs coming out of the studio in a mere five years – thus launching his design career.
Jody counts on sage advice from his grandmother to fuel his creativity: Look to the world of man and nature for inspiration.
““Look to the world of man and nature for inspiration””
He puts that to work daily in his designs for Howard Elliott, whether he’s inspired by the architecture in Paris or a pile of metal scraps in New Delhi.
One collection close to his heart is Howard Elliott’s hand-painted art collection, where each artwork begins with a story and the emotions that surround it. The line showcases vibrant colors, varied themes and incredible painting techniques (each design has its own dedicated artist at the factory in China). Working closely with the factory’s owner and artists, Jody admits to being in awe of the skill with which they craft each painting. Jody often gets hands-on to show the artisans how to achieve the exact right effect. Because, he says, I want them to know that each of these special pieces really mean something to me and not just that we are cranking them out one after another.
While work trips are, well, primarily about work, every now and then there’s time to soak up some local inspiration. On a recent visit to China, Jody toured the Forbidden City in the center of Beijing.
““I was blown away, he says, by the textures, colors and architectural details – it’s breathtaking to see these buildings that have stood there for the past 600 years. As a designer, I was so moved by the surroundings, but, as a person, it enriched me by understanding a culture and a people better.””
Sightseeing at the Forbidden City in Beijing
Jody draws on inspiration just as his grandmother taught him, from the world around him. Sometimes as close as his own outdoor garden. Like this piece he titled, Blooming Zinnias.
Red Tulips In Vase, part of the Howard Elliott hand-painted canvas art collection, was inspired by one early spring, the first flowers in bloom were the red tulips. Proud as can be, I made my way out to the garden, thinking “Today is the BEST day ever!"
Stay tuned for Jody’s unique inspirations to show up in future Howard Elliott collections!
