Richmond artist Jamie Pocklington passed away last week at the age of 46. RVA Magazine was fortunate to meet and profile this complex and talented individual in our pages back in 2006.
Richmond artist Jamie Pocklington passed away last week at the age of 46. RVA Magazine was fortunate to meet and profile this complex and talented individual in our pages back in 2006.
Here is a look back to that spotlight and a few words from his close friends Jeff Hathaway and Chris Nall reflecting on his life after his passing.
RVA Magazine Vol. 2 Issue 2 2006
J.POCKLINGTON ON J. POCKLINGTON
I paint quasi-realistic people in abstracted settings. People often feel like they know or have seen the subjects of my work. Not likely, unless you were drinking with those kids at beach week or were at that New Years Eve party in Australia. The images I select have universal qualities, but purposely no local ties. Thus, I can collage them into new scenarios without anyone saying “Why did you do that to me? ”Although not knowing the subjects allows me great freedom, I often wonder if someone out there is thinking, “I feel like someone is painting me and If I find them I will sue them.”
From Chris Nall
I met Jamie Pocklington in the second grade, and from that point on he was my best friend. He had an easy, invisible charisma that drew people to him. He was perhaps the most creative person I’ve ever known — not only because he grew to be an amazing artist, but because he was creative in everything he did. His brain was so fertile and nimble and offbeat; people wanted to be around him, to do things with him, to be like him. He was charming and funny and you always wanted to be a part of his next idea or adventure. You wanted to be in his orbit.
He had his flaws, as we all do. He could be sharp and stubborn and opinionated, but those who knew him knew the deep well of sweetness and vulnerability beneath. He was kind and loyal and passionate about the things he loved, and he was beloved by many.
I can hardly conceive — much less express — how much he influenced the person I am today. He introduced me to so many ideas and people and art and experiences I never would have had on my own. He was always pushing me out of my comfort zone, sometimes purposefully, often simply by his own example. Over the course of more than three decades we spent countless hours talking about life and art and ideas and music and people and hopes and dreams. I don’t know what kind of person I would be without his influence and his friendship, although I know it would be less, much less.
Now he is gone. Beyond darkness, beyond human suffering. He was an ambassador from a wild realm of pure idea and imagination to which he has returned. He never wanted anyone to mourn his passing, and I am trying, trying. He probably would not have wanted this tribute — but then he and I were never afraid to disagree with each other, and I say to hell with that. He was my friend, he deserves tribute, and all I have are these words.
So remember that life and peace and happiness are fleeting and impermanent; treasure everything and everyone you can while you can. Keep your loved ones close and tell them you love them, because the people you love are part of you, just as Jamie will always be part of me.
From Jeff Hathaway
It is with much sadness that I share the passing of a good friend and amazing artist.
I met Jamie Pocklington in 1988 as a new student at VCU. We became friends immediately and certainly caused enough trouble. After college, Jamie picked up and began his life of self discovery. He had many ups and many downs in all of his travels and eventually ended up back here in Richmond. We fell right back in and had more good times and adventures, including his marriage and the birth of his daughters.
In art, Jamie’s subject matter was unique and his eye was spot on for color and arrangements. Every piece was a favorite of mine and probably you as well.
I plan on building a new website to showcase personal pictures and artwork from friends and customers around the country.
I would also like to organize a celebration of his life, taking into consideration all that goes into everyone making travel arrangements. Please PM me with information for consideration for this event.
There will not be a public funeral or wake, just a gathering of family, so I think that a come together of friends and fans is needed.
Rest In Piece jpock!
Friends and family are welcome to join us for a remembrance at 4 p.m. Saturday, April 9, at 115 Tempsford Lane, Richmond, Va. 23226. A Celebration of Life will be held 7 p.m. that evening at McCormack’s Big Whisky Grill, 1420 N. Parham Rd., Richmond, Va. 23229 at Regency Square.
