This year, the art world pays tribute to Brett Jones, a former artist at Rare and a BAFTA-winning contributor to both the gaming industry and Hollywood, whose works have shaped iconic experiences and visuals. Jones, who passed away earlier this year, left a significant mark with his creative genius, particularly during his tenure at Rare from 1994 to 2002. He played a pivotal role in crafting the visuals for renowned video games such as Perfect Dark and GoldenEye 007. His career extended beyond gaming into the realms of television and cinema, where he contributed his talents to major projects including Guardians of the Galaxy, The Last Jedi, and Fantastic Beasts.
In honor of his contributions, Kit Cox initiated a crowdfunding campaign to organize an exhibition at The Atkins Gallery in Hinckley, Leicestershire, showcasing Jones's extensive body of work. Situated near Jones's home and close to Rare's former headquarters, the gallery opened the exhibition on November 4th, 2024, offering a comprehensive look at his artistic journey. The exhibition features a range of previously unseen concept art for Perfect Dark and GoldenEye 007, alongside pieces from his work on popular TV series such as Doctor Who, Star Trek, and The Avengers.
Not just limited to his professional work, the exhibition also explores Jones’s personal passion for art, displaying a series of cartoons and caricatures he created during his time at Bournemouth University, where he earned his MA. Throughout his life, Jones remained devoted to the art of creation, often encouraging others to cultivate their skills through continuous practice and constructive criticism. He held a firm belief in the importance of feedback in the artistic process, consistently engaging with others to share insights and perspectives.
Visitors to the exhibition will gain insight into Jones’s evolution as an artist, witnessing his transition from traditional painting to digital artistry, a move that earned him the affectionate nickname "The Colouring-In Department". His humorous and modest demeanor, as described by the information boards at the exhibit, brought a light-hearted touch to his otherwise intense dedication to his craft.
The Atkins Gallery, which is open from Monday to Friday, from 09:00 AM to 5:00 PM, offers free entry to this evocative exhibition titled "Painting Icons: Inside the Art of Brett Jones," which concludes on Friday, November 15th. This event not only celebrates the professional achievements of Brett Jones but also offers a deep dive into his artistic philosophy and the creative passion that fueled his impressive career. It stands as a fitting homage to a man who left an indelible impact on both the digital and cinematic worlds.
For fans of video games, cinema, and fine art, the exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the process and passion of one of the industry’s influential figures. Through this retrospective display, The Atkins Gallery provides a comprehensive examination of a man whose works have entertained, inspired, and influenced countless individuals across multiple platforms and media. This exhibition ensures that the art and legacy of Brett Jones will continue to inspire future generations of artists and creators.
