Balloon dogs that spring to life and colourful crates: The unique still life paintings of Robert C. Jackson

"They're my signature," Jackson told American Art Collector in a recent interview. "I want people to be able to say, 'That's a Robert Jackson!' I want people to be attracted to the paintings from 12 feet across the room and then get closer and become involved in them."

You can see his latest works at a solo show at Gallery Henoch in New York City this month, where Jackson has also introduced live animals to the mix. In his painting 'Seriously', a live owl contemplates his stuffed animal counterpart, while the seagull in 'Encounter' has a distinctly stronger reaction to his stuffed animal replica.

These artworks continue his ongoing theme between the spontaneous and deliberately planned, the real and fake. Jackson paints from life in his studio, so while these tableaus are set up, the magic in the paintings comes from capturing a momentary spark once the humour and playfulness of the piece finally click.

Jackson's solo show 'Offbeat' is on view now until 16 November at Gallery Henoch in New York City. Find out more about Jackson at robertcjackson.com.