It's no secret that Jayne County has always been inclined toward the arts, not just through her music, but by her performances in plays (Andy Warhol) and films (Derek Jarman). There has been one aspect of Jayne's artistry that has not been as openly acknowledged until very recently, and that is her inclination towards visual creation, color, and her ability to personify her life experiences and world views through drawing, painting and visualization . All of that changed when a dramatic presentation of her art went on display at the Participant Gallery in downtown Manhattan.
Flawlessly curated by longtime County friend and supporter Michael Fox, the program which is titled "Paranoia Paradise" was the smash hit of the season, a success on every level imaginable. On the opening night, as New York was assaulted by wind, icy rain and a deep freeze, the who's who of the underground emerged to marvel at Jayne's instantly iconic take on the world that she sees. Before the doors opened, Debbie Harry was first to arrive, making the first purchase, and then disappearing. Bob Gruen, who has some classic 70's County shots in his portfolio, took in the sights, as did Guy Furrow and members of the classic Squeezebox/Pyramid crowd; when the room was totally packed, Jayne addressed the crowd and took questions, live from Georgia, via Skype; needless to say, the crowd went wild and hung on every word.
Response from media was instant and overwhelmingly positive: Art Forum, Vents Magazine,NY Art Beat,Brooklyn Rail,a call from Interview Magazine to speak to Jayne, and on it went, as the show's closing date was extended, as Jayne flew into town for the final posted night, so she could see the exhibit for herself, after which she went to dinner with John Waters, Debbie Harry and Guy Furrow. The resultant worldwide attention has led to calls for the show to travel nationally and potentially internationally, and has encouraged Jayne to dive deeper into this side of her talent, while continuing to record new material. Long time County fans are thrilled by all this renewed activity and are hungry for more, and more, we are told, is on the way.
