WILLIE JAMES JONES (deceased)

I met Willie James Jones at the Heartside Ministries on Division Avenue in the center of Grand Rapids Michigan.  The Ministry had room for artists who worked daily on their art.  They rarely missed a day.  Willie, like the others was unique.  He had his own style.  Some said it was like a grade school level, but it was his.  I don’t know where he lived or if he was a street person, but in his mind the gallery may have been home. 

I loved going to Heartside.  At first the artists were on guard, not knowing if I could be trusted.  I looked them in the eye and talked to them in a way that was not threatening.  As time passed, when I came into the gallery they all greeted me.  I was a friend and might buy some of their art.  They were always sincere and understood that I couldn’t buy every time I was there.  I was drawn to many of the artists, especially Willie.  He didn’t talk much—just answered your questions with one or two words.  He knew I liked his work but never pushed any of it on me. 

Sarah Scott was in charge of the Gallery.  She kept the order and all the artists worked together to keep things under control as many of them were on drugs and had mental problems.  She was gracious and remarkable.  Someone from the “Museum of Everything” in London, England contacted her.  They were interested in “Outsider Art” and had heard that she was a viable source.  She sent representative work of five of her artists, among them Willie, who was chosen and another artist who was deceased.  She raised over six thousand dollars and took Willie, herself and the sister of the deceased artist to London for the opening of the exhibition.  It was held at the Selfridge Department Store.  It stayed on exhibit for a month and then traveled a circuit in London.  Willie’s work is in the permanent collection as is the deceased artist, Mark Douglas Wilson.  Selfridge is the home of the Museum of Everything.

The three were there for the opening.  I was very happy for Willie and asked him if he enjoyed the trip—yep—and the honor—unhuh—are you happy—yes—are you going to retire—no.  Willie died a few years later at age sixty-six.  He always wore a fedora, a suit jacket and slacks.  He was always quiet, respectful, confident and sweet.  He is one of many featured in An Irregular Heartbeat:  The Artists of Heartside Gallery and studio.

Living in the U.P., I could not get to the Gallery as often as I would have liked.  When I did I was always received well.  I was not a threat, but a friend.  I cried when I heard of Willie’s death and said a prayer for him.  He was an inspiration to me.  He endured his struggle to the end; always showed up and did his work; and was respected by his peers.  He was another unique child of God, whose path was different than most.  I am left in awe.  There are many Willies among us, some recognized, some not, but all facing their own struggle.  It is wise to reach out to them in a sincere way and help them in the way that Jesus instructed us.  What could be a greater gift to Willie?  He was real, approachable and in the common denominator was one of us. 

I am a better person for having met him and know there are many Willies who need our love and support.  A commitment to goodness is much needed.  We can all take care of the things needing attention that are right in front of us.  We all have a role and Willie fulfilled his.  Be at peace, Willie.

By Steve Haarman, aka Stanski

September 28, 2020 ^