My name is Christopher P Jones, and I’m an art writer and novelist.
Art Writing
I’ve recently published How to Read Paintings, book to guide readers through the meaning of works of art by taking a closer look at what paintings actually show, including their symbolism, technique and composition.
Dip in at random or read from beginning to end, How to Read Paintings is an accessible tour of some of the most beautiful objects in art. Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced art-lover, this book has something for everyone.
Fiction
My trilogy of Berlin-based novels centres around a group of friends living at the end of the Weimar period, just as the Nazi party are rising to power. Their stories involve betrayal, kidnap and suspense, as well as exploring the political and cultural landscape of this fascinating era of history. Step into 1920s Berlin, a time of cabaret and jazz music, and so much more…
Art Critic
I review art exhibitions, specialising in modern and contemporary art. I am the London Art Critic for Riot Material magazine, a print and web arts journal. A selection of recent reviews include:
Corrosion And Other Maladies In Peter Doig’s Latest, Paintings
Art Historian
I write articles and essays on art history. My particular areas of interest are 20th century German Expressionism, 19th century French art, and contemporary painting. I am currently working on an idiosyncratic guide to the National Gallery, London, and a new book How to Read Paintings.
Would you like a free guide to the Essential Styles in Western Art History, plus updates and exclusive news about me and my writing?
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Cultural Critic
I publish art and cultural criticism and I have awarded “top writer” in art, ideas, inspiration, history, travel and creativity on Medium where I regularly publish. My collected Medium articles can be seen at Thinksheet magazine.
I write about contemporary culture, covering such topics as social media, travel and philosophy:
Social Media and the Digital Gaze
When Our Heroes Fall (On Michael Jackson and narratives of condemnation)
Cultural Critic
I publish art and cultural criticism and I have awarded “top writer” in art, ideas, inspiration, history, travel and creativity on Medium where I regularly publish. My collected Medium articles can be seen at Thinksheet magazine.
I write about contemporary culture, covering such topics as social media, travel and philosophy:
Social Media and the Digital Gaze
When Our Heroes Fall (On Michael Jackson and narratives of condemnation)
Contact me
I am actively seeking new opportunities in the fields of art criticism and art history. Please contact me for more.
From the blog
How to Read Paintings: At the Moulin Rouge by Toulouse-Lautrec
This scene shows a group of friends in the bar of the Moulin Rouge. The figures socialise against a backdrop... View Article
The Artwork That Inspired My Debut Novel
How one work of art can give rise to another I’ve admired this painting for more than 20 years. I... View Article
What is a Museum?
Cultural encyclopedia or appropriated plunder? I recently took a trip to Athens in Greece. Whilst I was there I visited... View Article