Jonah Hoffman (b. 1998, New Mexico, USA) earned his BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and is currently an MFA candidate at Goldsmiths, University of London, expected to graduate in 2025. He has received grants from the Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation.

 

Jonah’s work explores the complex relationships between art, materials, and power. By examining the history of cobalt blue pigment and its connections to modern mining practices, Jonah reveals the intricate links between art, exploitation, and the global economy. He calls for deeper theoretical reflection on the use of materials, considering the social, economic, and ecological impacts behind them.

 

Through the use of cobalt blue, Jonah connects different elements of global art, prompting deeper thought on both art and material usage. While artistic creation is often seen as a personal and intimate process, once the work is revealed, it opens up a broader perspective. Though the artist’s personal experience is significant, the real reason a work resonates with people is often due to the emotional and intellectual connections it forms with the audience.