Born in Paterson, New Jersey, Ben Jones is a renowned artist and retired professor at New Jersey City University (NJCU). His storied career has spanned decades, earning him recognition for his multidisciplinary works that encompass drawing, painting, and installations. Jones’ journey as an artist began during his college years at Paterson State College, where he was encouraged to pursue his passion by his former high school art teacher, Rosalind Feinstein.
Jones’ connection to Jersey City runs deep, as he has resided there since 1980. It was during this time that he discovered the Spirit of Life Ensemble, led by Daoud-David Williams, during their activities at the Miller Branch Library. The ensemble’s shared cultural and political beliefs forged a strong bond between them, which has endured over the years.
As an art professor at NJCU from 1967 to 2010, Jones taught live drawing, figure drawing, and color theory. He also played a significant role in educating students about Black culture during the Civil Rights Movement. Throughout his career, Jones has exhibited his work in numerous galleries and museums both nationally and internationally. He has made 102 trips to Cuba, where he has showcased his work at the Casa de Africa museum as part of the Havana Biennial. Additionally, he has an upcoming exhibition in Berlin, Germany, which will explore themes of ecology, spirituality, politics, and race.
The Spirit of Life Ensemble, which will perform in Jones’ honor on April 27, is deeply rooted in the 1970s jazz loft scene. The group has collaborated with jazz legends such as Archie Shepp, Randy Weston, Pharoah Sanders, Rosana Vitro, John Hicks, Kenny Barron, and Joe Lee Wilson, among others. They have performed extensively throughout Europe, including cities like Paris, Berlin, and Pori, Finland.
The tribute concert at NJCU will feature an array of talented musicians, including Michael Cochrane on piano, Michael Logan on bass, Sipho Kunene on drums, Rob Henke on trumpet, TK Blue on alto sax, David Robinson on tenor sax, Chip Shelton on sax and flute, Tony Hurdle and Cornell McGhee on trombone, Nate Bloom on guitar, and Dennis Cruz, Yogie Rosario, Sam Oliver Khone, Tony Goodson, and Daoud-David Williams on percussion.
Don’t miss this special opportunity to celebrate the legacy of Ben Jones and experience the captivating music of the Spirit of Life Ensemble. Join us at the Margaret Williams Theater on April 27 at 7 pm for an unforgettable evening of art and music.
