About
Born in Plantation, Florida, and now based in Fort Lauderdale, 24-year-old Haitian abstract painter Jed-Lee Metayer is a vibrant force in contemporary art. Drawing from a rich cultural heritage, their work is characterized by bold color palettes, dynamic shapes, and symbolic imagery that evoke deep emotional and spiritual connections.
With a passion for artistic expression that spans over three years, Jed-Lee Metayer uses a unique blend of acrylic paint, acrylic paint markers, and spray paint to bring their creative visions to life. The use of vibrant hues and abstract forms reflects their personal journey, deeply rooted in Haitian traditions while embracing a modern, urban aesthetic. Through their work, they explore themes of identity, culture, and the complexities of the human experience, often incorporating elements of symbolism that invite the viewer to engage on a deeper level.
Jed-Lee's abstract style is an exploration of movement, energy, and emotion. Their work challenges traditional boundaries, inviting the audience into a world where color and form speak louder than words. Their bold approach to abstraction brings fresh perspectives to the contemporary art scene, captivating art lovers and collectors alike.
Artist Statement
I am a self-taught artist who turned to painting as a form of therapy after losing my father during the pandemic. In a society that often denies men safe spaces for emotional expression, my canvas became my sanctuary. Through my art, I have created a space where emotions can be released, processed, and transformed, a testament to the power of creativity as a tool for healing.
My current series, Uzumaki, explores abstraction and repetition, where symbols emerge through the formation and deformation of spirals. These spirals exist within multilayered gradients, evoking imagery from the natural world. Influenced by Japanese artand philosophy—particularly Taoism—my work reflects themes of growth, passion, and affirmation. I visually examine the process of breaking cycles of trauma through solid circles of color or negative space, free of symbols or patterns. At the core of my artistic language is the spiral, representing birth, rebirth, and the non-linear journey of healing. In a world saturated with distraction, trauma, and outrage, my work invites viewers into a meditative space, offering a moment of stillness and introspection.