Joe John Art

Wenatchee-based artist Joseph John Sanchez creates work characterized by swirling, handwritten text that can only be read up close. The process was initially born while studying printmaking at Wesleyan University, yet took many years to fully develop. After a harsh critique that sent the message that “words have no place in art”, Sanchez began to experiment with using text in his work to create texture. This began with overlapping, illegible text that appeared in ballpoint pen sketches from 2007-2011, evolving into windows within his mixed-media collages that revealed meticulous cursive writing. Sanchez first began to explore his current technique in 2013 while working on a piece for his best friend’s 30th birthday that included the lyrics to songs they regularly listened to during road trips and impromptu dance parties. While traveling to the party, multiple commuters stopped him to inquire about the piece. A half-decade later, Sanchez has embraced the versatility of this process, using it to trigger pop culture nostalgia, confront our current political climate, and create customized commissions that range from deeply personal to blatantly commercial. To keep up with his work, Sanchez can be found on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook at @joejohnart. Inquiries about commissions can be directed to joe.john.sanchez(at)gmail.com.