Meet Jennifer Herlocker

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

Hi Jennifer, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

I’ve always loved the arts, and found that art allowed me to fully release the anxiety or depression that I had buried so deep. Art has allowed me to find ways to heal and voice a topic that isn’t always an easy conversation to have. Realizing that my artwork and the concept of art, as a form of expression for people living with mental health struggles pushes me to continue.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

When I started painting it was my own form of therapy. Finding some
Thing to help me get out of bed and “voice” my fears or traumas in a visual abstract way. Once I realized how powerful art is to helping with mental health and stress, I really wanted to find a way to allow others to find their voice artistically. A way to help people find a way to provide their internal dialogue in writing, painting, music, whatever facet of art that helps them.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

My painting was completely self taught. It was initially something I played around with. Never in my life did I ever expect it to form into the beginnings of a career. Keep trying new things, find new ways to intermix your work. Also, The important thing is to trust yourself, put yourself out there, no matter how hard it is, that is the toughest part for me. I prefer to stay in the shadows, but you really need to enter the light so people can find you. It’s as simple as that. Rely on your voice.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

I recently collaborated on a book of poetry and my art with writer Brianna Malotke. We met at chateau d’ Orquevaux in France in 2023. Taking that fearful step into the art residency and meeting Brianna truly changed my life, for the better. All the people I met at the two residencies I’ve participated in, Chateau d’Orquevaux and Atelierair have been life changing. Also my parents of course. As I’ve transition how I want my next part of life to be they’ve been incredibly supportive and I know I don’t maybe voice my appreciation to everyone as much as I should, they’ve all made my life infinitely better and happier. I don’t think I’d be here if it hadn’t been for everyone, family and the friends I’ve made. They’ve made me realize my worth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Jenniferherlocker.com
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/jenniferaherlocker