The Founders | Living Our Passion
Laurence Chandler and Wanda Jackson
There’s a lot behind creating a business, and making the decision to pursue your passion can be both terrifying and gratifying. Laurence Chandler left a graphic design position at the U.S. State Department in Washington, DC, while Wanda Jackson left a public relations position at IBM’s Federal Systems Division in Northern Virginia. The two met at a small business seminar. Jackson subsequently tapped Chandler’s freelance graphic design business to create several of her division's marketing booklets.
In the late 90s, Chandler, an artist, and Jackson, a writer, founded J.C. Ventures, Inc. Their first venture was Graphiti Gems® greeting cards, a popular line marketed direct to consumers, and through small boutiques and bookstores in the Washington-DC Metro Area. They opened their first brick-and-mortar gallery using the same brand name to market Black Art. For nearly two decades, they operated successful galleries in DC, and a gallery and custom framing warehouse in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Chandler and Jackson have helped novice and experienced art collectors, as well as corporate clients select artwork aligned with their interests, style, identity and budget. Chandler also has created commissions based on their clients’ specific requests. They have provided custom framing and matting services, offering expert advice on materials, conservation framing and design to create a visually appealing presentation.
Their priority today is building and maintaining a strong brand identity, image and recognition for Chandler’s art and Laurence Chandler Fine Art, an E-commerce business operating under their privately-owned company, J.C.Ventures, Inc.
Core Values:
- Artistic Excellence
- Creativity
- Public Education (abstract art)
- Customer Service
- Passion and Appreciation of Beauty
- Perseverance
- Community Engagement
Credentials:
Laurence E. Chandler
BFA in Graphic Design, Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)
Masters in Education, Coppin State University
U.S. Air Force (4 years)
Wanda Jackson
Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations, The University of Alabama
Picture Framing - Certification, Larson-Juhl
Laurence Chandler
“Tuning in to my surroundings, sounds…especially music and personal experiences often gives me the spark I need to make my first mark on canvas or paper. It’s the permission I need to feel comfortable with the creative process that is mine. For me, abstract art is the equivalent of poetic expression, just on paper or canvas. It is visual magic, allowing you to ‘see with the mind’ and experience realities invisible to the eye.”
Wanda Jackson
“I’m not sure who said ‘Things that excite you aren’t random. They are connected to your purpose. Follow them.’ — I couldn’t agree more. When you go after the things that are ‘you,’ you become more of who you are meant to be. And, that’s a good thing.”