Interviews
“Art is the Highest Expression of Our Time”: Will St. John on Shaping Timeless Narratives
March 5, 2025
In the bustling art scene of New York, Will St. John stands out as a figurative painter whose work bridges the past and present. His journey into art was anything but conventional—eschewing formal art school, he instead forged his path through independent study and relentless practice. Today, he continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of traditional techniques while incorporating modern influences, including AI technology.
This is Will St. John.
A Journey Rooted in Curiosity
Growing up in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, St. John spent hours in his mother’s library, where he first discovered his love for drawing. A childhood book on how to sketch fantasy creatures ignited his passion, setting the stage for a lifelong creative pursuit. His journey took him to New York in the early 2000s, originally for creative writing, but the city’s vibrant art scene soon drew him in.
“I never went to art school,” St. John admits. “Instead, I traveled, studied the old masters, and spent countless hours in museums, sketching and absorbing.”
A Distinct Artistic Approach
St. John is known for his figurative oil paintings, varying dramatically in scale from small six-inch works to massive eight-by-ten-foot canvases. His technique is deeply influenced by classical training, yet he embraces contemporary technology. He merges Renaissance methods with modern tools like Photoshop and AI, creating a unique blend that resonates with both historical and modern aesthetics.
“I want my work to transcend time,” he explains. “I’m not just interested in what appeals to people today—I want my paintings to be just as meaningful 100 or 500 years from now.”
Standing Apart in the Art World
Despite his success, St. John still considers himself somewhat of an outsider in the art industry. While many artists build their careers through networking and academic circles, his journey has been solitary, driven by his dedication to mastering his craft rather than following trends.
“The art world is global now,” he notes. “There isn’t one cultural center anymore. Artists can make an impact from anywhere.”
This perspective has fueled his independence. Rather than conforming to expectations, he carves his own niche, focusing on timeless excellence rather than fleeting trends.’
Embracing New Technologies
One of the most intriguing aspects of St. John’s practice is his openness to AI. While many artists fear that automation will replace creativity, he sees it as an opportunity.
“There’s a misconception that AI will take over menial tasks while creativity remains human,” he says. “But we’re seeing AI making waves in visual art and film. The challenge now is figuring out how artists can integrate this technology into their work.”
He believes that AI has the potential to revolutionize the creative process rather than replace it, and he is eager to explore how it can enhance artistic expression.
The Art of Persistence
For St. John, success isn’t measured in money or recognition—it’s about showing up consistently and pushing his work forward.
“You have to keep creating, keep evolving,” he emphasizes. “Opportunities come to those who stay dedicated to their craft.”
This dedication has led to his recent collaboration with Saatchi Yates Gallery in London, a space known for taking risks on emerging artists. St. John sees this as an exciting new chapter in his career.
Looking to the Future
Currently, St. John is preparing for his next major show, working on 10 to 15 pieces that will push his artistry even further. He continues to balance his career with his role as a father, drawing inspiration from his family and life in New York.
“I’m incredibly lucky,” he reflects. “I wake up every day and get to pursue my vision. That, to me, is the ultimate success.”
As the art world continues to evolve, one thing remains constant—Will St. John’s relentless pursuit of excellence and his commitment to creating work that stands the test of time. To explore more of Will’s art, follow him on Instagram @willstjohnart, and visit our website for additional stories from artists worldwide.
