Jean Gray Mohs

Raleigh, NC

“Through my work, I navigate and articulate the intricacies of existence, translating my experiences into tangible expressions. Each piece is imbued with my thoughts, emotions, and reflections, creating a dialogue between myself and the viewer. By drawing from personal narratives, I aim to foster connections, provoke introspection, and evoke shared human experiences through the universal language of art..”

Jean Gray Mohs, a North Carolina native, is an artist who intricately melds science and spirit into abstract creations that reflect life’s most beautiful and difficult journeys. Her work is deeply informed by her personal journey through chronic illness and disability, resulting in art that explores emotional and physical vulnerability and the resilience of the human spirit. Art has forever been an integral part of her life. From a young age, Jean told her mother “But, I am art”. There was never a distinction between herself and the act of creating.

Jean Gray earned a BFA and MAT degree from Georgia Southern University, where her artistic journey commenced. Over her career, she has presented her work in 26 solo shows, participated in 91 group exhibitions, and contributed to 24 museum and university exhibitions. Her art has graced prestigious venues, including the Contemporary Art Museum, Ortega Y Gasset, The Blanc, Peel Gallery, and more.

Jean Gray’s artistic style has evolved significantly over time, reflecting the shifting landscapes of her life journey. In her earlier years, her focus was on realism, driven by school assignments that encompassed portraits, landscapes, and illustrations. However, as she matured and gained artistic freedom, her work began to mirror her own personal narrative and emotional landscape.

During pivotal moments such as the birth of her children and motherhood, her art transformed to reflect the profound changes and emotions she experienced. From vibrant watercolor depictions of fertility to abstract acrylic expressions of isolation, each phase brought forth a new visual language.

After her children were born, a new pivotal moment emerged as she faced illness head on. At age 40, she needed a life-saving double lung transplant. Navigating this extreme barrier led to a further evolution in her style. Her work became increasingly abstract, marked by chaotic elements that mirrored the turmoil within. Thankfully, the medical team at Duke University helped her traverse a successful transplant and aligned her onto the road of recovery.

“One profound lesson I've learned is the power of vulnerability. In the act of creation, I've found the courage to delve into the depths of my being, confronting fears, doubts, and insecurities with honesty and authenticity.”

Focusing primarily on painting and sculpture, Jean Gray employs diverse media to investigate the nuanced relationship between human strength and fragility. She often contrasts materials like maple plywood and waxed thread to symbolize the merging of separate entities into harmonious balance, reflecting her own transformative experience with a double lung transplant. Her creations resonate with those intimately acquainted with the interplay of strength and fragility in the face of chronic illness.

When it comes to choosing her materials, she prioritizes ideas over preferences. She shares, “Proficient in various media, I adapt to suit each concept. For themes like fertility, watercolor offers fluidity; for forest installations, moss and leaves bring authenticity. My favorite material is the one that best serves the narrative at hand.” Currently, she gravitates towards wood, metal, and waxed thread for their versatility and ability to convey the complexities of my artistic vision. Each material lends itself to the storytelling process, allowing her to craft immersive experiences that resonate deeply with viewers.

“I've coined my process as "Object as Vessel, Process as Catharsis," as each piece serves as both a reflection of my life and a means of processing the emotions and experiences of the time. My style continues to evolve, guided by the ever-changing currents of my life's narrative.”

Jean Gray is excited to join ArtLifting to create meaningful connections with other creators and supporters of the arts, expand her reach in the art world, as well as gain support and resources as she continues to challenge herself in her craft. She goes on to explain, “I hope to make a positive difference in the lives of others, sharing my perspective and creativity to inspire and uplift individuals within the community.”

Jean Gray’s dream project has always been to create large-scale public artwork that fosters community engagement and playfulness within a shared space. “I envision an immersive installation that invites people of all ages to interact, explore, and connect with one another. This project would not only serve as a visually captivating addition to the urban landscape but also as a catalyst for community gathering and collaboration,” she shares. At the heart of her work and dreams is shared human connection.

When she is not creating, Jean Gray volunteers her time speaking to pre-transplant patients every three months at Duke. Before her transplant, she didn’t know what success after surgery looked like, so she hopes to enlighten others on what life can be beyond transplant. She also runs two artist spaces/events to build the ecosystem of artists in the NC community. In her free time, she enjoys reading, spending time with family and friends, exploring museums and attending artist talks.