About

Jon Worth was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on November 17, 1977, to Blaine Mackinnon and Barbara Yuzyk. At birth he was named Jonathan Mackinnon, later choosing the name under which he now works and exhibits.

Jon’s artistic practice ranges across a number of genres - portraiture, landscape, and narrative paintings are at the core. Working primarily in oil paint and charcoal, he explores human presence and natural environments on paper, linen, and hemp. His paintings often balance careful observation with expressive mark-making, creating works that invite both intimacy and storytelling.

Growing up Jon attended the Forum Art Centre and the Winnipeg Art Gallery classes as a fiercely driven learner. Later Jon would study fine art at Emily Carr University of Art and Design (2002–2005), after completing studies in Print Production at Vancouver Community College. Unsatisfied with the technical level of information at Carr - Jon would go on to study under Canadian painter Paul Chizik - who he credits to have offered him insights in the ways of the old masters. On the academic side, he pursued Economics at both the University of Manitoba and the University of British Columbia between 1996–2000, grounding his creative practice in analytical inquiry and cultural awareness.

As a former national athlete with Canada’s Field Hockey Team, Jon travelled extensively, experiencing global cultures and museums that continue to influence his artistic lens. He lived in Vancouver for nearly 20 years, maintaining two studios during that time—first off of Commercial Drive and later at the iconic 1000 Parker Street studios.

Today, Jon lives on a farm with his family in Grand Forks, British Columbia, where he continues to create work that reflects the people, stories, and landscapes of his region. Alongside his own studio practice, Jon currently serves as the Director/Curator of The Grand Forks Art Gallery, where he is dedicated to shaping exhibitions and programs that celebrate both local and national creativity.

Beyond the gallery and studio, Jon and his wife Helen Worth are co-founders of Lucky Pheasant Chocolate, an iconic Western Canadian brand known for its distinct design, regional storytelling, and artisanal craft. Together, they merge art, entrepreneurship, and local identity into projects that resonate far beyond their Boundary/Kootenay home.