Artists Who Look to the Skies

Stuff We Love

By Ross Boissoneau | Oct. 31, 2026

For Willie Jones Jr., the sky’s the limit. That’s because his artistic inspirations are primarily aircraft, particularly World War II planes. “They had so much character,” he says. The retired U.S. Air Force veteran researches his subjects before he ever gets out his pencil. “You have to know the aircraft,” Jones says. He painstakingly renders the details, making sure every panel and rivet is in exactly the right place. His fascination with aircraft goes back to when he was a child. “I always liked aviation,” Jones says. His works can be found at several military locations across the country, including the Pentagon and Scott Air Force Base outside St. Louis. Closer to home, you can see his art on display through November in the McGuire Room at the Traverse Area District Library Main Branch, 610 Woodmere Ave. in Traverse City.