We recently connected with Jennifer Brennan and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Jennifer, thanks for joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

I always loved vintage paper mache, however I thought perhaps there was a formula which would give a more durable final product. I always remembered the more traditional paper mache flour and water mixture seemed to eventually break down. I was on a quest to find a super durable paper mache medium.
Seeing as I prefer to experiment on my own with different formulations, I did eventually find a formula which has now become my tried and true recipe. I make small batches of my clay with a simple kitchen mixer, from several different components.
Knowing what I know now, and how much time and energy I have spent trying to come up with a solid formula, I believe I would have greatly benefited from taking classes or watching video’s from those who have perfected their tequnique.
I could have saved myself time and frustration had I just reached out for guidance. I would highly recommend learning from the masters.
It may sound odd, but I do see a strong correlation between my love for cooking and my love for sculpting. I see paper mache process as akin to a good cooking recipe,as it has many layers and steps to attain a professional final product.
Its been challenging trying to raise my young son by myself and trying to find the time to put into my sculpture work. I’ve spent many a late night working on my art when my son goes to bed, but somehow it all works out. When you love what you do you find the time for it.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

 I got involved in creating my paper mache sculptures because I needed some extra income to help pay for the care of the four horses I rescued. I have been making one-of-a-kind paper mache sculptures for several years, and over that time, I have been amazed at how my artwork has been embraced by so many. I have met some of the most wonderful people and have brought joy to many through my whimsical creations. I love connecting with people and interacting with each collector one-on-one. I have made many custom pieces for people featuring their pets, usually for those that have passed away. It is such an honor for me to be asked to help keep the memory of a loved one’s pet alive through one of my custom sculptures. Feel free to let me know if you need any further adjustments!

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

When I first started creating art almost full time, many people tried to dissuade me, saying that I would never be able to support myself through my art. I’m just glad I never listened to them.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Please support your local artists. If you look around your community, you may be surprised by the incredible talent that is around you. Attending local art openings, festivals, and vendor fairs, as well as sharing artists’ work on social media platforms, is so important to the art community. I strongly encourage everyone to be creative and to inspire each other through various forms of artistic expression.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifersausebrennan?igsh=eml5ZTRqMjJ3OXRj
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/18URvbRHB1/?mibextid=qi2Omg

Image Credits

Jennifer Brennan