living a purple-driven life
Meet Jeff
I was first introduced to Jeff Hanson’s paintings when I saw his story on CBS’ Sunday Morning program. Around the same time, I was nursing an injury that stopped me from making my art. I was planning to give up on my artistic endeavors and then heard Jeff’s story.
Jeff was visually impaired since childhood, but that never stopped him from pursuing his passion for art. He became a self-taught artist, known for his vibrant and textured abstract pieces as well as stunning floral designs. His journey into art began at just 12 years old when he started painting watercolor notecards during chemotherapy treatments. It was a therapeutic outlet that would eventually lead to something much bigger.
By the time he was 15, he had turned his passion into a business, officially incorporating Jeffrey Owen Hanson LLC. Fast forward to age 20, and Jeff had already raised an astounding $1 million for various charities through his artwork, all while gaining national recognition in the art world. His impressive list of clients included big names like Sir Elton John, Warren Buffett, John Cena, Billy Joel, and Dale Earnhardt Jr., showcasing just how far his talent could reach. According to his website, Jeff had a special fondness for the color purple, often saying he lived “the purple driven life,” which perfectly encapsulated his colorful spirit and zest for life despite the challenges he faced.
More about Jeff’s art and philanthropy
In spite of his condition, Jeff developed his strong visual style of painting with heavy paste to make vibrant 3D effects. Similar to Van Gogh’s impasto style, Jeff’s paintings are loaded with piles of paste which make them come to life.
What made Jeff special and a standout was his desire to use his art to help others. As a result, his philanthropic efforts benefited over 200 charities from the auctions of his artwork.
Jeff received numerous awards including Young Philanthropist of the Year, Young Entrepreneur of the Year, People Magazine’s “Hero Among Us”, NASCAR Foundation’s Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award and was counted in CNN’s “Impact your World”.
Jeff’s legacy
In his lifetime, Jeff’s art business raised millions of dollars from auctions and sales of his paintings. By age 27, Jeff had reached his goal of raising $7 million for charity. He dreamed big and left an even bigger legacy. As an artist, you cannot ask for more than that.
From the beginning, I’ve been tremendously impressed with Jeff’s art and philanthropic efforts. Most artists are just trying to make a living to survive. With a clear north star and support from parents and family, Jeff was able to paint his way to his goals. In his career, he had gained popularity with television coverage, awards; as well as meeting famous celebrities like Sir Elton John who purchased his art.
I have long admired Jeff for his spirit when he was alive and even more now. He is a true hero in my eyes. As his website states, he is “changing the world through art”. Jeff believed that – “Every act of kindness helps create kinder communities, more compassionate nations and a better world for all – even one painting at a time.”
Fortunately, Jeff’s work lives on as his parents have taken on the privilege of continuing his dream of art and philanthropy. As they paint in his signature vibrantly-colored and textured style, he smiles on them as he paints his way through heaven.
Jeffrey Owen Hanson Art Gallery and Studio
See more behind the scenes photos – https://jeffhansonart.com/studio-shots/
What inspires me about Jeff Hanson
I learned about Jeff, his situation and his art at a perfect time. I was tired of art and was contemplating quitting my art practice. I was attracted to his use of color and heavy texture in his pieces. Also impressive was Jeff’s tenacity and progression in his art practice. He started from humble beginnings and grew his art to earn millions of dollars for worthy causes. Jeff was a philanthropic artist who inspired me to include philanthropy in my art practice. – Angela
Resources
- Jeff Hanson – Current Works for Sale – https://jeffhansonart.com/product-category/originals
- Remembering Jeff Hanson – https://jeffhansonart.com/remembering-jeff-hanson/
- Jeff Hanson. Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/JeffHansonArt
- Jeff Hanson. Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/jeffhansonart/
- Jeff Hanson Art. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkkrmBeis9tYY9h9TwxdEGw
- Jeff Hanson Story. You Tube. https://youtu.be/hvCpMbxLyeM
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