Artist Seeks Urgent Support

It's the holidays, and I'd rather not encumber anyone with the details of my circumstances or explicitly ask for help right now. This GoFundMe initiative may come as a surprise to those in my network and community, but my concern for public perception has finally taken a back seat.

I am Java Jones, currently serving as an artist-in-residence at Pioneer Works. Navigating employment since the pandemic, while dedicated to my art practice, has proven challenging since I deferred grad school this year due to the emotional toll of supporting other friends and family in need, trying to escape the pain of my brother's murder this summer, and ultimately not having the financial support to relocate and attend grad school in person.

Despite the reluctance to share my story with the world right now, I must set aside pride–as an immediate need to make ends meet takes precedence. Traditionally the one offering support to friends and family, I now find myself in the position of needing assistance urgently.

My career search, ongoing since February, has yet to yield stable opportunities. While I have recently secured three freelance gigs, the anticipated payment–which would certainly cover all expenses and debts I’m currently seeking assistance with–is not expected until at least mid-December.

Unfortunately, my roommate has issued a strict ultimatum due to two consecutive late payments, threatening eviction if payment is not received on the first of December. Given their role as the leaseholder, my options are limited, and homelessness looms as a consequence. I am also two months behind on credit card payments; my main medium format camera is in the repair shop; and my storage facility has issued a foreclosure notice, stipulating that all my belongings–including artworks, books and notes, hardware, art supplies, and clothing–will be auctioned if I do not settle outstanding fees by December 3. So all funds received will be used to settle each of the aforementioned balances.

The weight of these circumstances has pushed me to the edge of exhaustion and I’m fed up: I’ve made so many damn sacrifices and still persevere day-after-day–striving to see the day that the love, knowledge, passion, time and talent I pour into my aspirations are not only acknowledged but also reciprocated in the form of a flourishing environment (with abundant resources) where my dreams can truly blossom and make a significant impact on the world. For example, my last open studio at Pioneer Works is scheduled for December 10, and I’d like to focus on finishing and sharing my current works-in-progress but I need more resources to complete everything. I lost a lot of art materials during the pandemic due to So, if you would like to donate wood, plastic (PETG) and any fabrication resources (specifically CNC machine and UV printer) that would be greatly appreciated as well.

I refuse to let this temporary situation consume my soul, but I’m reaching a breaking point. And to those I’m closest with in my community, if you've noticed a change in my demeanor recently, this is the reality I've been facing. If you haven’t noticed, because I don’t believe in harboring stress, fear or doubt, well it's time to lay it all out and stop pretending that all is well. Stress kills. But I'm very much alive, though with a temporary hardship I'm certain I will quickly overcome with your support.

Growing up in a dysfunctional, cash-poor household in Marion, Alabama, I escaped for a better life. I’ve definitely accomplished a lot; however, the current challenges I'm confronting are so unexpected–overwhelming is an understatement. And I feel like I’ve kept my mouth closed for too long, not out of shame but out of sheer exhaustion and confusion.

Despite my brilliance, tenacity and grace, the material conditions I'm confronting are marked by instability and precarity. The degrees, panels and workshops, the applications, therapy sessions, vitamins, laughter, sex, solitude, community, exercise, and meditation have not translated into stable employment. Therefore, beyond immediate financial support, I am earnestly seeking a career opportunity to restore stability. Trust me, being raised by a single, Black mom in Alabama wasn't easy. And witnessing that type of independence as youth has more than guided me on my own ambitious, I’ll-do-it-myself path. Frankly, I never want to ask anyone to help me with anything. With multiple degrees, competent skills, a good network, an inventive imagination, etc., I believe there must be a stable opportunity awaiting me. So, any recommendations or immediate hire suggestions would be greatly appreciated as I’m also just looking for a smooth transition after my residency at Pioneer Works ends on December 22.

Here's my website and a list of positions I'm qualified for:

AI Imagist

Art Director

Content Producer/Editor

Curatorial Assistant

Creative Consultant

Creative Producer

Digital Content Associate

Exhibitions Coordinator

Graphics and Marketing Assistant

Image Archivist

Image Architect

Imaging Coordinator

Media Coordinator

Photographer

Photo Editor

Retoucher

Stylist

Video Editor

Happy holidays and thank you for taking the time to read this.