Biography
Born in Adelaide, South Australia in 1972, Jason McCarthur is a self‑taught artist whose work reflects a deep connection to place and community. Now based in the remote mining town of Broken Hill, New South Wales, he draws inspiration from its distinctive landscapes, architecture, and everyday life. Working in a naive painting style, Jason captures moments of authenticity, humour, and quiet observation.
His paintings celebrate the character of Broken Hill – its streetscapes, mining heritage, desert surrounds, and wildflowers. A long‑standing passion for greyhounds and greyhound racing forms a central theme. Through these images, he traces the greyhound's life from whelping shed to racetrack to retirement, highlighting the emotional depth within this world.
Jason's commitment to storytelling has led to significant exhibitions: 2012 Port Pirie Regional Gallery, three exhibitions at Swan Hill Regional Art Gallery (Vietnam War series), and international showings in Poland with the Australian Naive Art group. His works are held in collections across Australia and abroad, including noted supporter Paul Kelly.
Selected exhibitions
- 2012 – From Chasing the Hare to Lying on the couch (A Greyhounds Journey) Pt Pirie South Australia
- 2019 – A part of the Australian Naive Art Display (Katowice) Poland
- 2022 – The Story so far Exhibition 2 with Wayne Elliott, Glenn Morgan and Matthew Clarke
- 2024 – The Art of Broken Hill In conjunction West Darling Arts exhibition held in NSW Parliament House Sydney Australia
- 2026 – Colours of the Australian outback solo exhibition Shibuya Tokyo Japan
Supporters & acknowledgements
🎸 Darren Hanlon
Australian musician, songwriter – "Camping Music".
@theblueguitar on Instagram
🖌️ Wayne Elliott
Accomplished Australian Naive Artist based in Geelong, Victoria.
🎨 Glenn Morgan
Australian Naive Artist from Victoria, Australia.
🎹 Fujii Kaze
Japanese musician, singer / songwriter.
fujiikaze.com
🎵 Paul Kelly
Australian music icon and collector of Jason’s original painting.
🌏 International community
Collectors across Australia, Japan, Europe and the UK.
With deep gratitude
I would like to thank all the people who have supported my journey thus far - your interest and faith have been appreciated very much and help me move forward daily.
A special mention to the people of Japan whom have been so wonderful with the support they have provided my family and I. 心から感謝します.
Jason’s practice continues to be energised by new cultural experiences, and he looks forward to exhibiting his work in Tokyo - a place that inspires fresh creative directions.