Meet Justin Yanke

Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin Yanke.

Justin, before we jump into specific questions about your art, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
A childhood fascination of drawing portraits led me to pursue my BFA at the Columbus College of Art & Design in my home state of Ohio, where I focused on Photorealism. With a desire to take my skills to the next level, I later enrolled at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco to earn a Master’s degree in Figurative Fine Art.

My appreciation for the human form, color, and Old Master techniques greatly evolved during my time at the academy. With a sufficient level of education and discipline under my belt, I currently practice art at my home studio in Denver, CO. Experimentation, juxtaposition, and a heightened sense of realism are key elements incorporated into my personal and commissioned work.

Has it been a smooth road?
Obtaining an education in the Arts was a fairly easy thing to do. However, it has been a constant struggle to make ends meet with my burdensome Student Loan debt and the uncertainty of developing a loyal fan base. People are constantly coming to me with ideas for what they would like me to make for them, which I love doing, but as personal bills pile up, my ambition and courage to create work out of my own imagination becomes a lesser obtainable goal.

We’d love to hear more about your art.
I create photorealistic portraits and illustrations with an array of traditional mediums. Collaborating with up and coming authors and musicians for cover art has been some of the most lucrative projects in my career, but my ability to never turn down a commission is something I am most proud of. Even if I find myself working for free, making a portrait that has serious sentimental value to my client brings me the most joy. I am in no rush to receive a “big break” for my talents and I am very grateful to be recognized in any small way, like being featured on the cover of Rooster Magazine in 2017 and participating with this interview for VoyageDenver.

Is our city a good place to do what you do?
Denver certainly stands out to me as a growing city with a great appreciation for the arts. I couldn’t imagine anything changing here. As an emerging artist, there are a variety of ways to put yourself out there. Participating in the First Fridays on Sante Fe is an easy way to start.

Contact Info:

• Address: 670 S. Pearl St. Denver, CO. 80209
• Website: www.justinyankeart.com
• Phone: 7204837530
• Email: justinyanke@justinyankeart.com
• Instagram: artist_for_hire
• Facebook: Justin Yanke Art

Suggest a story: VoyageDenver is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.