JD Shultz

Biography

JD Shultz captures the mind, soul and inner spirit through a body of work best described as “complexity at it’s most whimsical.” Boasting a unique and fun-natured style, Shultz’s work is gaining praise and attention from viewers and art critics alike. The pieces encompass subjects ranging from dreamlike cityscapes to thought provoking abstracts and fantasy surrealism. His innovative use of acrylics painted on the reverse side of plexiglas produce images that explode off the surface. Each piece treats the mind to an experience using intense color and artistic form. Raised one block from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, JD was exposed to and enlightened by some of the greatest art in the world.

Born into a family of professional artists, his greatest influences happen to be his parents, and two artist siblings Adam and Rachel. “My mom and dad paved the way for where I am today”. “I couldn’t have done it without them”. Shultz says. Sculptor/painter Carole Shultz and multi-media painter, Jack Shultz were well known throughout Southern California in the 70’s and 80’s. Their work currently resides in thousands of collections throughout the world. Shultz’s group exhibitions have made him a star attraction. His pieces are in the private collections of motion picture director Jonathan Mostow (T3, U571), actress Joely Fisher and Connie Stevens…to name a few.

For the past three years, JD’s art has been auctioned and sold at major events for the Grammy’s and MusiCares Foundation (honoring Brian Wilson, James Taylor, Don Henley, Aretha Franklin and Neil Diamond), RADD (Rock Against Drunk Driving), thebutterflyeffectfoundation.org, City of Hope and the American Heart Association. His work has brought revenues in the tens of thousands for some of these notable charities. JD has also had the amazing privilege of working along side theartofelysium.org. An organization that lets artists and musicians entertain and work with terminally ill children. “sharing my gifts with others has been the most rewarding gift of all” JD's early artistic palette was further expanded by his passion for rock and soul music. As a self-taught multi-instrumentalist, producer, and songwriter, JD has written and recorded music since his late teens. These roots advanced his expression of color and design, giving an innate sense of rhythm and motion to his paintings. In the past year, JD decided to dip further into the pool of entrepreneurship by building his own independent label, Deep Pocket Records. The first release was self-financed, produced, and co-written with Girl Without Fear, titled “Mix Messages”. The music has recently aired on three of the biggest tastemaker radio stations in Los Angeles: KROQ, Indie103.1 and KCRW. In November 2006, Girl Without Fear enjoyed the honor of winning an L.A. Music Award for Electronic Single of the Year. Currently, JD’s self produced solo record “Human Brother” “Vision Days On The Life Ride” is getting a huge buzz and can be heard at Humanbrother.com. If that’s not enough, JD’s rock band Galaxy Grand Prix is in the middle of their debut album set for a release in 2009. “to marry both my art and music into a career that can touch so many lives is a dream come true”

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING - - -

• “JD’s art is so optimistic in nature. The brilliant colors and whimsical style that he employs is truly uplifting and inspirational”. - Professional athlete Lance Armstrong
• “I love JD’s art. His work is both inspiring and timeless. My entire family enjoys the bright and youthful ambience his art brings to a room”. - Actor/musician Will Smith
• “I first viewed JD’s art at a friends home. Since then he has been one of my favorite artists. His bright colors and relaxing subject matter keep me forever young”. - Hall of fame quarterback Steve Young

Artist Statement

I am truly blessed to express myself in this world so freely and actually have a great career in so, Waking up to an email from a client who writes "I never thought a piece of art could change my life" or "JD..I think you've figured out a way to help people live longer with your art" just blows me away. I have to pinch myself sometimes. I hope to be painting and making my music for many years to come!

Art Education

Jack and Carole Shultz. My parents did all the teaching.

Awards

My art just graced the cover of the "2009 Music registry Guide for Film and Television" I have raised almost $50,000.00 in charitable donations for the Grammy's and Musicares, The American Heart Association, currently the feature artist at thebutterflyeffectfoundation.org. Won an LA Music award for "Electronic Single Of The Year" in 2006