Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jenni Horne. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jenni, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?
I exude a profound sense of happiness in my role as an artist, a career that seemingly chose me as much as I chose it. Embracing this artistic journey as a calling, I recognize the innate gifts bestowed upon me and take joy in sharing them with others. The true essence of fulfillment lies in my role as a professor, where not only do I openly share my creative wisdom but also revel in nurturing the artistic spirits of students of all ages. Just ask my students, I can’t talk about teaching without an abundance of tears. The genuine love for teaching emanates from my heart, creating a dynamic and inspiring space where creativity flourishes. In this commitment to guiding the next generation of artists, I find deep and lasting happiness, a testament to the effortless relationship between my passion for making art and the joy derived from fostering the artistic growth of others.
Jenni, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am a Southern-born artist, originally from Birmingham, Alabama, whose main creative outlet as a child was music. This early exposure to the arts cultivated a unique sensibility that translates into the visual creations I produce now. I’m a visual artist, professor, and mother who paints with a captivating blend of abstraction, delicately rendering figures, and landscapes that reflect the nuanced beauty of my surroundings. My creative journey is profoundly influenced by the intricate dance between my identity as an artist and the joys and challenges of being a mother. The paintings, characterized by a harmonious interplay of bold colors and compositions, evoke a sense of tranquility and contemplation. Beyond the canvas, I extend my artistic vision into unique, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. These creations include the paint left behind on my vibrant palettes. These wearable pieces of art mirror the essence of my visual storytelling. My multifaceted identity as a Southern-raised artist, nurturing mother, and dedicated professor contributes to a body of work that not only reflects my journey but also invites others to connect with the beauty and emotional depth embedded in my art.
I currently live in a historic home in Newnan, Georgia with my husband, 2 dogs, and 2 cats. I teach painting and drawing at the University of West Georgia. I also teach workshops across the country, inspiring people of all ages to join me in my creative journey. Check my Instagram for upcoming workshops @artsyorange or my website: www.jennihorne.com
For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist, for me, is the privilege of teaching and sharing my creative gifts with others. As an artist who is also a mother, I find immense joy in connecting with fellow creatives, particularly mothers, and sharing the insights gained from my own artistic journey. The ability to guide and encourage others to discover and nurture their creative spirit is profoundly fulfilling. I believe in fostering a community where fellow mothers can carve out sacred space for their artistic adventures, navigating the delicate balance between nurturing family life and indulging in the creative process with my online courses. Witnessing the transformative power of self-expression and witnessing the confidence it instills in others is not just a privilege but a source of continual inspiration that enriches both my artistic practice and the collective creative spirit we cultivate together.
Have you ever had to pivot?
Transitioning from teaching at a public high school to the college level on less than a week’s notice was an unexpected whirlwind that became the realization of my dream job. The opportunity presented itself, and without hesitation, I applied, eagerly awaiting the outcome. Suddenly, with minimal time for preparation, I found myself in the midst of a transformative shift. Despite the time constraints, the prospect of teaching at the college level, a long-held aspiration, fueled my determination. The interview process, nerve-wracking yet exhilarating, culminated in the confirmation of the position. Stepping into this new role was both exhilarating and challenging, as I swiftly recalibrated my lesson plans and teaching approach for a more advanced academic setting. The abrupt change tested my adaptability, but the prospect of realizing my dream and the inherent excitement of a fresh, intellectually stimulating environment made the transition an invigorating leap into a chapter of professional fulfillment.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jennihorne.com
- Instagram: @artsyorange
Image Credits
Jenni Horne