Aspiring artist embraces color, creativity at downtown Kinston studio
At Art 105, a vibrant creative space located on West Blount Street, artist Cory Jones is building a world of color, characters, and childhood nostalgia — one acrylic painting at a time.
Jones, who moved into his studio on Halloween 2024, has spent the past seven months exploring his identity as a multi-medium artist with ambitions of turning his creative pursuits into a full-time career.
“I’m hoping to become a full-time artist someday,” Jones said. “I’m painting, doing digital artwork, drawing by hand, making clothing sometimes, and just fulfilling all of my creative endeavors.”
His preferred medium at the moment is acrylic paint, though his journey has included a range of tools: Sharpies, Copic markers, digital software, and even oil paints — though he notes oils were “the messiest thing I’ve ever done in my life.”
Jones operates under the artist name “YIDS,” short for “Yo, I Draw Stuff,” a moniker he coined at age 14, inspired by graffiti artists like KAWS and Gox. He says the name stuck because it was simple, memorable, and easy to stylize.
A self-described “huge nerd,” Jones’ studio is filled with toys, comics, and pop culture references that often find their way into his artwork.
“I grew up on Sonic the Hedgehog, video games, comic books,” he said. “You’ll be able to tell that as soon as you see my artwork. I love color.”
Although Jones currently works independently, he’s open to connecting with other artists and joining community-based creative groups. Most of his public events and exhibitions have taken place in Greenville, where he says his largest audience is located.
Born in Snow Hill, Jones has lived all over North and South Carolina, as well as Georgia. He believes his frequent moves shaped not only his perspective, but also his accent — or lack thereof.
“No one ever knows where I’m from,” he said. “People say I don’t have an accent, or if I do, they can’t place it. I think that’s from moving constantly.”
In addition to paintings, Jones offers commission services including digital artwork, graphic design, EP covers, and custom illustrations. He’s also explored photography, animation, and even toy design — recently creating a custom figurine of himself.
“I’m getting closer to making every single thing I grew up on,” he said. “I’ve made a comic book, trading cards, clothing — even a full magazine that I included with a shirt order. I just want to thank people who support me and give them something extra.”
Those interested in Jones’ work can find him on Instagram at @yids, or visit him in person at Art 105 in Kinston.
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