We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jessica Kirby. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jessica below.
Jessica, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is an event called The Dream Realm, that I hosted at The Peach in West Palm Beach last year. This immersive art experience was born from my desire to visually explore the subconscious realm. Teaming up with local artists, I worked to curate a multifaceted experience that included a gallery show, outdoor installations, an artisan market, performances, and more.
The backstory behind creating this specific immersive experience was rooted in my belief that art should transcend traditional boundaries and resonate with a broader audience. My goal was to create a welcoming space where everyone—especially those who feel marginalized in traditional art settings—could immerse themselves in a world of creativity. This event wasn’t just about showcasing art; it was about fostering community and providing a platform for unconventional artists to shine.
Ultimately, The Dream Realm was more than just an event—it was a testament to the boundless possibilities of art.
Jessica, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
As a South Florida native, I discovered my passion for art in grade school. My formal education in fine art painting spanned my primary and secondary schooling, where I developed a deep appreciation for traditional techniques.
Seeking to expand my horizons, I pursued further education at Florida State University Film School, with a focus on animation. This experience introduced me to the limitless possibilities of digital art, complementing my traditional skills. Today, I seamlessly integrate both acrylic and digital mediums in my work.
My art exploration centers around surrealism, where I delve into dreamy and whimsical concepts with a a desire to push creative boundaries. I am known for my distinctive use of vibrant color palettes and my recurring motif of clouds. With my work, I invite viewers to look beyond everyday existence and enter the visual sanctuary I have created; to enter another realm.
Have you ever had to pivot?
After graduating college with a degree in animation, I found myself uncertain about my career path. Breaking into the animation industry was challenging, and I wasn’t sure how to proceed. With the support of my film school classmates, I ventured into creative marketing, leveraging my animation background. For two years, I worked on concepts and designs for creative ads for various brands at a marketing agency. While the work was technically creative, I began to feel a growing disconnect from an artistic perspective.
Despite the obvious perks that come with having a stable career, I longed for a more expressive outlet—I wanted to hold a paintbrush again. Recognizing this desire, I made a decision to step down from my full-time role and transition to a part-time position with reduced responsibilities, allowing me to devote more time to art. It was a risky move, considering the financial uncertainty often associated with pursuing art as a career. However, the decision was driven by a deep-seated need for creative fulfillment.
Over time, I gradually shifted the balance, prioritizing my own art career over creative marketing. It’s a decision that continues to challenge me from a logic standpoint, especially considering societal warnings about the “starving artist” stereotype. But in my heart, I feel extremely fulfilled. Embracing my passion for art has brought a sense of purpose and joy that was missing in my previous role.
While the path ahead may be uncertain, I am committed to following my artistic passions and exploring where they may lead. This pivot has taught me the importance of aligning my career with my true passions, even if it means taking risks along the way. I am excited about the journey ahead and the opportunities that lie in pursuing art wholeheartedly.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to communicate and connect through my work. While I do value traditional social interactions and conversation, articulating my thoughts and emotions verbally can sometimes be challenging. Art serves as my solution, enabling me to translate intricate feelings into tangible, visual forms—it’s like completing the puzzle of my expressive abilities.
Through art, I gain a secondary form of communication that transcends language barriers and speaks directly to the soul. This process of sharing my inner world through visual storytelling is probably the most fulfilling part in my opinion.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://jessicamkirby.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kirbys.art/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicamkirby/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kirbysart
Image Credits
Michelle S
Shot by CKP