We were lucky to catch up with Jessie Laura recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Jessie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
I think the desire of being an artist was always in the back of my mind since a very early age. Looking back, I realized that this want was instinctually nurtured by my closest family members; my grandparents’ love for books & ephemera, and my parents’ creative backgrounds (my dad’s passion for crafts and woodworking, and my mom’s career in advertising). Throughout my childhood and teenage years I felt a constant encouragement for my creative initiatives.
After High School I attended Design School majoring in Graphic Design, after a brief stint in Business School that lasted three semesters. Following that, I worked as a Designer and Art Director for 6 years, until one day I decided to quit my job, pack my things and move to NYC to go to Film School focusing on Production Design and Set Design at the School of Visual Arts (SVA). During my time at SVA I discovered that what I enjoyed the most was to spend time in the studio painting and working freely with different media. The fact that I was living in the most diverse, artistic and energetic city in the world helped me determine that art was the path that I wanted to follow.
Since then, I’ve successfully balanced my time between being an art director and my artistic practice. While these two disciplines are related, they uniquely fulfill different needs within me. The empathic, practical problem solver in me, enjoys working with clients and successfully convey their ideas visually. On the other hand, my artistic self feels nourished when I am able to share my personal ideas and my unique way to see and perceive the world through art.
My studio practice is heavily informed and influenced by the design principles learned early on as a graphic design student, as well as incorporating elements from spatial design; knowledge acquired during my time in Film school. As an artist and entrepreneur, my previous professional experience in Advertising and Marketing have equipped me with tools to navigate an art career that goes beyond what happens creatively in the studio. Every experience and setback I encountered early in life, provided a unique perspective, turning each experience into a valuable resource in my creative toolbox.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I’m a Peruvian Mixed Media Artist and Art Director based in San Francisco. My work features collages, assemblages and site specific installations that explore the notions of dimensional space and perception using depth, texture, and movement. Furthermore, abstraction through form, light, and shadow allows me to respond to and engage with contemporary culture’s onslaught of visual imagery.
Working primarily with wood and paper, my latest work navigates the complexities of light and form as artistic medium, physical reality, and aesthetic concept. Stripped from color and representational imagery, my current work gives the viewer the opportunity to engage with the work with heightened focus and a higher awareness of their presence in the space.
In the realm of residential commissions, I work closely with interior designers / homeowners to craft bespoke art pieces that harmonize seamlessly with their interior aesthetics. Whether it’s a piece to anchor a living room, a custom light wall sculpture, or a series of artworks for a home gallery, my dedication lies in translating clients’ visions into tangible, captivating art.
In the commercial sphere, I collaborate with art advisors and curators to extend my expertise to businesses and organizations seeking to enhance their spaces with distinctive artwork. These spaces include corporate offices, hospitality venues, healthcare facilities, and more. Collaborating with a diverse clientele, I create artwork that not only complements the design ethos of these spaces but also resonates with their brand identity, establishing an engaging environment for employees, customers, and visitors alike. Whether the objective is to invigorate a lobby, inspire a workspace, or add an element of luxury to a hotel, my art services are adaptable and attuned to the unique needs of each commercial project.
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
Reflecting on my creative journey, one aspect I wish I had embraced earlier is the power of building a community within the art world. Establishing connections and networks has proven instrumental not only in enriching my artistic experience but also in navigating the path towards a sustainable living in the arts.
Creating a community of fellow artists, mentors, and enthusiasts has provided invaluable support, encouragement, and shared insights. It’s a network that understands the unique challenges and triumphs of a creative pursuit, fostering a sense of camaraderie that is both motivating and comforting. These connections have not only expanded my perspective but have also opened doors to collaborative opportunities and exposure to different artistic practices.
In the realm of sustaining a livelihood in the arts, networking has proven to be a game-changer. Discovering resources, opportunities, and even potential patrons through a well-established network has significantly contributed to the viability of my artistic endeavors. Collaborating with other artists, engaging with galleries, and participating in art communities has not only elevated the quality of my work but has also increased its visibility in the market.
Understanding the business side of the art world, including the importance of networking and community-building, is akin to unlocking a hidden dimension of the creative journey. It transforms the solitary nature of artistic pursuits into a collaborative and mutually beneficial ecosystem. While technical skills and creative vision are undoubtedly crucial, the ability to connect with others, share experiences, and build a supportive network is equally vital for sustaining a fulfilling and prosperous career in the arts.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Being an artist offers a multitude of gratifications, but for me, the most rewarding aspect lies in the ability to forge my own visual language and establish meaningful connections with others through art. Abstraction, in particular, enhances this experience as it opens the door to limitless interpretation.
Crafting a visual language allows me to articulate thoughts, emotions, and perspectives uniquely my own. It’s an ongoing journey of self-discovery where each element becomes a part of my identity. This autonomy to shape and communicate through my distinct visual dialect is incredibly empowering.
Equally fulfilling is the opportunity to connect with others through my artwork. The abstract nature of my creations invites viewers to engage in a personal dialogue with the pieces. Every interpretation becomes a shared experience, creating a profound connection that transcends words. The beauty of abstraction lies in its ability to evoke a spectrum of emotions, enabling diverse individuals to find resonance in the same piece, although through different lenses.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jessie-laura.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/jessie.laura.artwork/
- Youtube: www.youtube.com/@jessie-laura
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@jessielaurastudio
Image Credits
Anthony Nguyen, Brooke Pappas