Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Wachter

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?

I am an abstract expressionist artist hailing from Bismarck, North Dakota. I pour personal narratives of celebration, struggle, love, and loss onto large-scale canvases, weaving layers of vibrant color, rich textures, and dynamic compositions. Art became my sanctuary and my means of self-expression after I was diagnosed with dyslexia as a child.
My pieces have found homes in collections worldwide, gracing exhibitions across the United States. They’ve been showcased at prestigious venues like the International Art Basel Event in Miami, FL, the Laguna Gallery of Contemporary Art in Laguna Beach, CA, Celebration of Fine Art show in Scottsdale, AZ, the Capital Gallery in Bismarck, ND and the Plains Art Museum in Fargo, ND. Notably, one of my works is part of the permanent collection at the North Dakota State Museum in Bismarck, ND. Additionally, I established the Jessica Wachter Visual Arts Scholarship, supporting female NDSU students in their artistic pursuits.
My journey exemplifies the transformative power of artistic expression, transcending limitations and fostering personal growth. Through my art and advocacy, I am committed to empowering women in the arts and championing diversity and inclusion within the creative community.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?

My greatest challenge has been growing up with dyslexia. As a child, words tangled and twisted and school became a struggle, leaving me feeling isolated and misunderstood.
But then, art emerged as a lifeline. It became my safe space where the limitations of language melted away. With a brush in hand, I discovered a freedom I never knew existed. Colors became my vocabulary, textures my voice. Suddenly, the complexities swirling inside me – the frustration, the isolation, the yearning to connect – all found expression on the canvas. That is why I always say it isn’t just marks or paint on a canvas – it is so much more meaningful and deeper.

For the first time, I felt truly seen, truly understood. Art wasn’t just a creative pursuit; it was a form of therapy, a way to finally feel comfortable in my own skin. It allowed me to bridge the gap between my inner world and the world around me, a feat that words alone could never achieve.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?

My art is an exploration of the human narrative, a tapestry woven from the threads of personal experiences, emotions, and the ever-evolving journey of life. I specialize in abstract expressionism, a style that allows me to translate these intangible elements into visual form.
What sets me apart is the raw vulnerability I infuse into my work. Each piece is a chapter in my story, a reflection of a specific moment in time. Large-scale and commanding a presence of their own, these works become immersive experiences. Some pieces might be bold and vibrant, capturing the joy of a new beginning. Others might be quieter, imbued with the blues that come with navigating life’s challenges.

However, through it all, a common theme emerges: the human experience. I strive to create pieces that resonate with viewers on a deeper level, prompting them to connect with their own stories. I want my art to be more than paint on a canvas—I want it to be an invitation for self-reflection and empowerment.

My greatest source of pride lies in the connection I forge with viewers. When someone tells me my art evokes a memory or sparks an emotion, it confirms that I’m making an impact. I want my art to be a catalyst for introspection, reminding people of the rich beauty in their own lives.

Ultimately, my work transcends labels and titles. It’s a celebration of the ever-changing human experience, a call to embrace our complexities, and a reminder to keep dreaming bigger as we navigate the chapters of our stories. So, what is your story? Perhaps you’ll find a piece that whispers its beginning within my collection.

Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?

Growing up, I wasn’t confined by the traditional tools of artistic exploration. We didn’t have coloring books in my house, which looking back, might surprise some! Instead, I had endless blank sheets of paper, a canvas for my infinite imagination. I wasn’t restricted to staying “within the lines,” a philosophy that resonates with my abstract expressionist style today. Even color wasn’t limited by societal norms. My favorite color, blue, defies the stereotypical association with femininity.
This love of limitless creation extended beyond paper. My Legos weren’t used to build what the box depicted—they were tools to bring to life the fantastical landscapes I envisioned. This ability to translate my inner world into a tangible form became a lifelong expression.
While Saturday mornings for most kids meant cartoons, I eagerly awaited my art classes. It was there, at that very studio, that I honed my skills and discovered the joy of artistic freedom.

Now, in a wonderful full-circle moment, that same gallery will be hosting my upcoming solo exhibition, “Back for the First Time” which is my first show since becoming a mother for the first time.

I will be “back for the first time” reflecting on the profound influence of motherhood on my life. As I create new work inspired by the boundless love of my daughter, I am reminded of the free-spirited child I once was. This show is a testament to the power of imagination, the enduring spirit of artistic exploration, and the deep impact of nurturing the creative spark within us all. I will be building on the tapestry of life, all woven from the threads of personal experiences.

Pricing:

• The value of each piece in my collection is determined by the complexity of the creative process and the unique elements that come together to form the final artwork, resulting in a spectrum of prices based on size, medium, and intricate details, and for commissions, there’s an additional layer of artistic attunement as I collaborate closely with the collector to bring their vision to life, naturally elevating the investment.
• Investment in Artistic Vision: The value of each piece is determined by the complexity of the creative process and the unique elements that come together to form the final artwork.
• A Spectrum of Value: As such, pricing varies based on the size, medium, and intricate details of each piece in my collection.
• The Bespoke Experience: For commissions, there’s an additional layer of artistic attunement, as I collaborate closely with the collector to bring their vision to life. This personalized approach, including tailoring color palettes, size, and the essence of the piece, naturally elevates the investment.
• Transparency is Key: I encourage you to visit my collection on my website or to reach out for a personalized quote on a commissioned piece.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jessicawachter.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicawachterart/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JessicaWachterArt

Image Credits
See images in folder here: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/kwc68ww6aiala123qr0if/ACctpmNnp6ggNgXDmTFYZdg?rlkey=ymqjcir0r17uqlw4k2wp3qivx&st=r6dcjf9v&dl=0