Born in Boston, MA, Jonathan Russell spent several years studying traditional figurative sculpture. Interested in expanding his artistic vocabulary, Russell went back to school at the Massachusetts College of Art in Boston. Here he explored various means of expression: from installation art to public sculpture as well as different ways to approach the figurative form in his art.

After leaving college, his sculpture became quite abstracted and stylized. He departed from the use of traditional materials such as clay. Instead, copper and steel became his essential medium. At the same time, he became much more interested in the dialogue that takes place between the sculpture and the viewer as well as among the pieces themselves.

Russell traveled extensively in Europe, from Morocco to Germany, in order to observe different cultural approaches and expressions of art. Based on these experiences he was invited to show at the Tacheles in Berlin Germany. His installation there, "Bodies in Progress," focused on the idea of disparate cultures coming together. It received high recognition from the community.

Recently Russell encountered the technique of Electroforming which involves a technical procedure similar to electro plating. Although he had used copper extensively, this new technique has further expanded his creative possibilities.

Texture, form, and line are important elements in the creation of personality in each sculpture. Emphasis is placed on the shadow behind or below the beauty of the surface as well as finding a balance of forms to create unity and harmony.

Besides working on his artwork, he also collaborates with his wife, Saori, on their public and private commissions. In the past few years, they have completed three large public art commissions; Union City Sports Center in Union City, CA (2012), the Memorial Sculpture in San Bruno, CA (2012), and the San Pablo Avenue Streetscape Project (2013). Recently they were awarded the Lincoln Avenue Parklet Project for the City of San Jose, CA.

Over the years, Russell has taught art classes and given workshops at such schools as Harvard University, UC Santa Barbara, Revere Academy and the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. He currently resides and maintains his studio in Berkeley, CA.