Is Jerry Yarnell Still Alive? No, Jerry Yarnell passed away on February 20, 2020. His obituary confirms his death and commemorates his contributions to the art world.
Jerry Yarnell, born Joseph Jerome Yarnell Jr., was a beloved artist and teacher whose influence spanned decades.
Known for his unique ability to teach and inspire through his art, Jerry’s work reached millions worldwide through his PBS TV show, workshops, and instructional books.
Though he passed away on February 20, 2020, his legacy continues to thrive in the art community.
This blog post delves into his life, career, and the lasting impact he made on artists and enthusiasts alike.
Contents
Early Life and Beginnings
Jerry Yarnell was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where his talent for art was evident from a young age.
Encouraged by his high school teacher, Opal Thorpe, and local portrait artist, Diane Bailey Woodruff, Jerry honed his skills and nurtured his passion for painting.
His early exposure to art and the support of his mentors set the foundation for his future career.
Breakthrough and Initial Success
Jerry’s first significant breakthrough came when he won two scholarships to the Philbrook Art Center in Tulsa.
Despite his initial excitement, he soon realized that his interest lay in realism rather than modern art.
He left the program to pursue his passion independently, which proved to be a pivotal decision.
His first sale, a painting purchased by a rodeo announcer for $200, solidified his resolve to pursue a career in art.
Career as a Teacher
Jerry’s teaching career began at the age of 19 when he was invited to conduct art lessons.
By 21, he was traveling across the Midwest, teaching workshops to hundreds of students.
His dedication to teaching never wavered, even as he balanced it with his own artistic development.
Jerry’s workshops became renowned for their quality and his ability to explain complex techniques in an accessible manner.
See Also: Is Iris Feldick Still Alive? Celebrating Her Journey
Transition to Television and Broader Reach
In the early 1980s, Jerry’s teaching took a new direction when he began recording his classes.
These recordings caught the attention of a PBS station in Missouri and subsequently, a representative from Grumbacher.
This led to the creation of his television series, The Inspiration of Painting. [Is Jerry Yarnell Still Alive?]
His show, later rebranded as Paint This with Jerry Yarnell®, became a staple for aspiring artists, airing on PBS and NRB networks and gaining popularity in Canada and overseas.
Personal Struggles and Triumphs
Jerry faced significant personal challenges, including a battle with Non-Hodgkin’s B-Cell Lymphoma in 1995.
With strong faith and the support of his family, he underwent a successful stem cell transplant.
This period of his life reinforced his resilience and dedication to both his art and teaching.
Evolution and New Ventures
In 2010, Jerry launched a new venture with his online school, Yarnell School Online.
This platform allowed him to reach a global audience, offering instructional videos for artists at all skill levels.
His new series on PBS featured advanced filming techniques, enhancing the learning experience for viewers. [Is Jerry Yarnell Still Alive?]
Legacy and Impact
Jerry’s impact on the art world extends beyond his instructional shows and workshops.
He authored thirteen books on painting, sharing his techniques and philosophy with a broader audience.
His commissioned works, signed under his legal name Joseph Yarnell, are treasured by collectors for their quality and artistic excellence.
Jerry’s passion for teaching and his unique ability to connect with students made him a beloved figure in the art community. [Is Jerry Yarnell Still Alive?]
His dedication to his craft and his unwavering faith were central to his life and work. As Jerry once said, “God gets all the glory for his success.”
Conclusion: Is Jerry Yarnell Still Alive?
Jerry Yarnell’s legacy is one of inspiration, dedication, and artistic excellence.
His contributions to the world of art continue to influence and inspire new generations of artists.
While Jerry may no longer be with us, his spirit lives on through his teachings, his paintings, and the countless lives he touched with his art.
Jerry Yarnell’s story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the profound impact one individual can have on the world.
My name is David Booker, and I love writing blogs. I like to write about famous people, especially older celebrities. Fans often ask, “Are they okay? How is their health? Are they still alive? Are they dead?” They really care about their favorite stars, and that’s why I write about them in this blog IsStilAlive.com.