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Dion J. Pollard, also known as the artist DionJa’Y, was born in Washington, D.C., into a life of poverty. He vividly recalls times when he and his brothers scavenged for leftovers in the Gino’s Chicken trash cans, as food was scarce at home. Dion often attended school with holes in his pants and shoes, which made him a target for teasing from his peers. However, the one thing that continued to inspire him was his artistic talent. DionJa’Y began drawing at the age of 7, but it wasn’t until he turned 13 that he truly honed his skills. One day, inspired by his brother’s drawings from comic books, he decided to explore his own creativity.
DionJa’Y quickly excelled at drawing, transitioning from reproducing images to creating originals from his imagination with remarkable detail. Although he started with pencil, he soon explored various other mediums and discovered his passion for acrylic and oil paintings, pastels, as well as pencil and ink. He also dabbled in digital painting, using a digital stylus to express his artistry. DionJa’Y is captivated by the texture of oil and acrylic paint, the spontaneity of watercolors and inks, and the rawness of pencils and pastels. He eventually ventured into three-dimensional works that extend beyond the canvas.
While in the 11th grade, his art teacher awarded him a scholarship to the Maryland Art Institute, but personal circumstances made it challenging for him to continue. Despite these obstacles, he believed that his artistic gift was divinely inspired. Later, he attended the Academy of Art University, where he aimed to enhance his craft and build connections in the art community; however, family issues limited his time there to just one year. Nevertheless, the blessings he felt continued to foster his growth and dedication to his creative path.
DionJa’Y paints with the intention of inspiring those who experience his work. He seeks to bring positivity to the world through his art, portraying smiles in places of hurt and happiness amidst destruction. His ambition is to counter negativity with vibrant representations of joy and hope, which is reflected in his avoidance of themes like war and pain. Celebrating life and optimism, DionJa’Y’s style varies, but consistently conveys his unique vision. He frequently exhibits his art at various curated events and is a resident artist at Artstina’tion Gallery at the National Harbor. His works are included in the collections of notable figures such as journalist Roland Martin and his wife Jacquie Hood Martin, musician Traci Braxton, and many others. DionJa’Y also maintains partnerships with several art wholesalers and resides in Oxon Hill, MD, with his son.
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