Hey Jess, tell us about your work!
My work is all about color. Do you know the feeling when two colors are next to each other and it makes your vision vibrate? I love that! I wanted to find ways to do that in my work, so I first tried making some abstract art. I felt I needed a bit more structure though, so I decided to use made-up floral imagery as a vehicle to explore color. It clicked for me right away, and I was soon making lots of artwork that I felt satisfied with — which had never happened before!
How did you get started?
I had been working as a designer for 10 years and realized I needed to create art outside of my job that satisfied me creatively. I started creating my floral artwork and focused on utilizing Instagram as effectively as I could (back when it was easier to do that). It didn't take long for people to resonate with my work, and I've been making it ever since!
Where do you find inspiration?
I love pattern design. The combination of color, imagery, and repetition evokes visceral feelings of delight for me. When I look at patterns it's not long before I feel the desire to create something based on what I've absorbed, whether it's another pattern or a stand-alone piece.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would tell myself that imposter syndrome is incredibly common for artists and to not let it hold you back for one second. You have talent and your art has worth. AND you should take some textile design classes while at RISD — they'll help you out later in life!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
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To learn more about Jess, visit her at:
jessphoenix.com and @jessraephoenix
Click here to visit Jess's Candle Shop
