We were lucky to catch up with Jandey Shackelford recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jandey, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

I have known that I wanted to pursue art since I was in 2nd grade. I always loved spending time coloring, drawing, and taking as many art classes as I possibly could. This passion continued all the way through high school and into college, where I decided to major in visual arts and take as many art-related classes as I could. Today, I am still as passionate about the subject

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am an interdisciplinary artist whose work raises questions and sheds light on persistent stereotypes, gender roles, and forms of oppression. Specifically, my work is a reflective examination of the impact that a space, particularly a home or house, can have on its inhabitants. I utilize a combination of my own footprints and those of others to explore these concepts. The footprints serve as tangible evidence, a presence, and a memory of the impact that the space has on its occupants.

My creative process involves bodies, space, interaction, and the physical manipulation of construction materials. These materials are subjected to a system of imprinting, tearing, arranging, and careful mending with fibers to represent the foundation of a home and the chaos that can exist within it. Through the combination of construction and craft materials, I seek to express the experience of living in a space characterized by a sense of hopelessness and helplessness. The act of creating represents an effort to transcend the space of sadness from which it is born.

Art has always been a part of my life, but it became more encompassing when I started graduate school and continued to evolve after I completed my Master’s in Fine Arts at the University of Arizona in May 2023. Currently, I am an emerging artist member at Strata Gallery Santa Fe. As my art practice continues to grow and evolve, I aim to keep exhibiting and engaging in dialogues with people about my work.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

A major turning point in my journey occurred during my time in graduate school when I received a particularly challenging critique. I left that critique session feeling upset and somewhat misunderstood, but I also found myself agreeing with the core feedback: ‘This work isn’t conveying the message you are hoping it is.’ It was a tough pill to swallow, but it ultimately became a catalyst for positive change.

In the wake of that critique, I embarked on a period of intense creativity. I dedicated myself to making a lot of work, and over the course of several months, I engaged in a process of experimentation, exploration, and learning from my mistakes. It was during this time that I finally discovered the direction for my thesis work.

When I think about pivoting in my life, career, or art, I see it as an opportunity to explore the boundless possibilities that lie ahead, rather than remaining stagnant or stuck in one place.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

I believe that, as humans, the act of going out and seeing art in person plays a vital role in the creative ecosystem. It goes beyond the mere act of viewing; it sparks conversations and discussions about the art, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding. Moreover, it plays a crucial role in supporting the artists who exhibit their work. By attending exhibitions, we not only engage with the art but also provide essential support to the artists who contribute to our cultural and creative landscape.

Contact Info:

• Website: jandey.net
• Instagram: @jandeyshackelford

Image Credits
Semoria F. Mosley