We recently connected with Jennifer Funnell and have shared our conversation below.
Jennifer, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
To keep my creativity alive, I embrace a varied approach that revolves around the freedom of expression and continual exploration. Taking breaks is essential; it provides mental rejuvenation and allows me to return to my work with a fresh perspective. I cultivate creativity by delving into new artistic mediums. The absence of pressure or rigid expectations enables me to experiment freely, fostering a space for innovation and originality. Nature serves as a constant source of inspiration, offering tranquility and a fresh perspective. Exploring my surroundings provides a tangible connection to the world around me, infusing my creations with diverse influences. Venturing into contemporary art galleries and museums is another vital source of inspiration, as it exposes me to the vast spectrum of artistic expressions from the past and present, encouraging a dynamic interplay between tradition and modernity in my own work.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I have been a visual arts teacher since 2009, working primarily at the secondary level. For the past 6 years I have been teaching high school drawing and painting. In addition to teaching high schoolers, I have the good fortune of teaching older adults how to draw and paint online through Element3 Health. I am passionate about teaching people the processes behind how to create art. I believe in a scaffolded approach, allowing students to build on their skills as they progress. Once students practice a variety of skills and techniques, it makes easier for them to start creating the type of art they want to make, as they have the tools to do so. I absolutely love the individual expression each person brings to their art. Brushstrokes and mark making in artwork translates much like handwriting on a piece of paper does, it’s so unique to the individual.
Most recently I wrote a book called “Easy Acrylic Painting” which is going to be released in March 2024. The book breaks down acrylic painting step by step with easy to follow along projects. It’s geared for the complete beginner, but folks with some experience may find it interesting to try a different approach or new subject matter. I also enjoy sharing videos on painting techniques and art processes on my YouTube channel with the goal of making art education accessible to all.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The first piece of advice I have for folks who are early in their journey is to remember, everybody was a beginner once. You have to start somewhere and the most important thing is to just get started. A lot of social media posts and videos that you see are from seasoned artists who have honed their craft. They often make it look easy, when in fact, they poured hours of practice into what they are doing (most likely off screen). Second, keep showing up. Even if it’s 10 minutes here and a half hour there. Whatever time you can give to whatever it is that you want to pursue is beneficial. Talent is often a honed skill, which is done when you simply show up again and then again and then again… You get the idea. Third, never stop learning. I believe in being a life long learner. You’ll learn from people that are younger than you, older than you, from different areas of the world than you. Be open to knowledge from artists around you. Not everything is going to work for you. Keep what you want and leave what you don’t.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed I like to pause and take a break from whatever it is that I may be working on and reconnect with my family and friends. Sometimes it helps to talk about why I’m feeling overwhelmed and other times I am looking for a distraction. I have an amazing group of girlfriends, they are my light in the storm. It’s important to have people that you can turn to. Talking it out can do wonders. Other times I try and move my body. Taking a walk or going for a hike can really help sort things out. Recently I have learned that even when I don’t feel like taking the walk, I do it anyway because often times moving your body can change how you feel. Riding my bike is another good one. But whatever it is for you, movement really helps. Sometimes it can help to be creative in a different way. I usually paint, so maybe I’ll practice my keyboard or journal. And when all else fails, I go to bed. Sometimes all I really need is sleep.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jenniferfunnell.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferfunnellart/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/e3hdrawpaint
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferfunnell/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/jfunnellart
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/jenniferfunnellvisualarts
- Other: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1800922213?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzjen0426b-20&creativeASIN=1800922213&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.314A3IMQAAN77&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d_asin
Image Credits
Jennifer Funnell
