Meet Artist Jenn Steffen & Learn About Her Artistic Journey.

Artistic Origins: Can you share a story of what drew you to your chosen medium and how your artistic journey began?

Artistic Origins:

I often see myself as a scientific researcher delving into the world of creativity. This stems from my love for experimenting with different mediums, not just for study but, more importantly, as a form of play. Art became my escape from childhood chaos, a therapeutic outlet, and a relaxing activity. This calming effect has remained constant in my life, and my work reflects our natural surroundings, featuring birds, animals, flora, and landscapes or portraits. I eagerly anticipate each creative endeavor.

Painting, using mediums like acrylics, watercolors, ink, oils, and drawing using colored pencils, has been a consistent choice. Those colored pencils are similar to that box of 64 crayons with the sharpener my grandmother kept just for me in the kitchen pantry next to the bugles (tube-shaped whistles) and Fago soda pop. In the last four years, I’ve explored seamless pattern repeats as a surface pattern designer, crafting intricate designs inspired by nature. The rhythmic and systematic nature of crafting repeat patterns is a brain-stimulating activity, bringing immense joy and satisfaction.

My venture into pattern design began in 2019 when I stumbled upon pattern tiles created by other artists. Intrigued, I explored the possibilities these tiled patterns offered, and this realization struck me – the need to master the craft, to learn how to create these patterns myself, and seamlessly weave my artwork into them. A pivotal moment in this journey was when I enrolled in a class by Bonnie Christine on Skillshare, propelling me into a realm of endless possibilities within surface pattern design.

This creative exploration coincided with a significant moment in my family life. Simultaneously, my youngest daughter was completing her degree in fashion design, during which she also learned the art of creating repeat patterns. This synchronicity added a delightful dimension to our artistic endeavors, creating a shared and enjoyable space for both of us to express our creativity.

The second reason for my chosen medium is my attraction to the concept of Print on Demand (POD). Unlike selling artwork in a gallery, POD sites reach a broader audience, aligning with my belief that art is meant to be shared and enjoyed by all. POD sites make art available on a multitude of surfaces, including, but not limited to, home decor products, wallpaper, and art prints. This allows for the opportunity for more people to enjoy art in their lives every day.

Is there a pivotal moment or experience that influenced your art?

Pivotal Moment/Experience:

Our evolution as artists is a continuous journey shaped by the beauty of the creative process. While I can’t pinpoint a singular pivotal moment, the entirety of my artistic experience has been transformative. Each creation represents my interpretation of the comfort and joy derived from the natural world. Gratitude fills me with the energy, joy, strength, and perspective stemming from my connection with nature, the most influential ingredient in my work.

Creative Process. Could you walk us through your creative process? How do you transform an initial idea into a finished piece?

Creative Process:

In a nutshell, my creative process is a fusion of inspiration drawn from nature or profound connections with others. The journey begins by capturing moments through a combination of photographs and journaling, forming a foundation for the artistic endeavor. I then engage in sketching and doodling, allowing the essence of the experience to materialize and serve as the groundwork for creating a layout or design. This creative expression might take the form of a small painting in watercolor, acrylics, or colored pencils. While not every creation meets my personal standards, the joy lies in the journey—the playful exploration and problem-solving that accompany it.

In subsequent stages, I transform the piece or its elements into a repeat pattern, transitioning from hand-painted or drawn creations to digital refinement using Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. In essence, my creative process is a dynamic interplay of reflection, experimentation, and adaptation—a journey I find immensely enjoyable and rewarding.

Meaningful Creations. Is there a piece you’ve created that is particularly meaningful to you? What’s the story behind it?

Meaningful Creations:

Singling out one specific piece from my body of work is challenging. Achieving a client’s vision has been particularly rewarding. Over the years, I’ve had numerous meaningful experiences, ranging from a career as a graphic designer for several years to designing special occasion cakes and winning awards. True satisfaction arises from crafting work that holds deep meaning for those who commission it or, in the case of graphic design, serves as an educational or informational asset.

Additionally, purpose arises from the full-circle creative process. Crafting pieces that hold deep meaning for those who commission them, such as portraits of their loved ones or creating art that becomes a part of someone’s home—featured on items like art prints, wallpaper, or home decor, for example—adds another layer of fulfillment. Witnessing the entire journey, from the inception of an idea to the connection forged with others through the artwork, is what truly holds significance for me and brings a profound sense of joy. This connection validates the entirety of my artistic journey. Knowing that my creations can bring joy and happiness to others completes the cycle, making the artistic endeavor genuinely meaningful. Sharing a part of myself and witnessing others connect with my creations is a unique and deeply appreciated experience.

What are your future aspirations for your artistic endeavors?

Artistic Endeavors:

For my future artistic endeavors, I’ve never participated in art shows, but a part of me envisions doing so in retirement. It seems like a fun prospect—an opportunity to explore, meet people, and travel to different parts of the country my husband and I have yet to visit. However, I would keep it manageable, focusing on art prints and providing samples or a catalog of products I have available on the Print on Demand (POD) sites where I sell my creations. This way, I can guide interested individuals to find me in the online world.

Beyond that, I have a myriad of projects in mind that I aim to manifest into reality! The extensive, mile-long list predominantly features birds and florals, reflecting my passion as a bird watcher and gardener. Additionally, despite not having delved into it since High School, I’m eager to rediscover the art of batiking. It promises to be an exciting venture into a medium that has been dormant in my artistic repertoire.

Anything extra?

Extra:

I firmly believe that art is for everyone! While born with natural talents, like eye-hand coordination, I acknowledge that ability isn’t everything. Misconceptions about lacking talent can hinder individuals from engaging in art, a notion I strongly reject. The creative process is therapeutic and accessible to everyone. Art provided me with a positive outlet during a chaotic childhood. It’s worth giving it a try!

Since high school, I’ve always empathized with those who believed they lacked the necessary qualities. I firmly believe that allowing oneself to play and experiment with materials and the process is essential and serves as a true healer. A few years back, I taught various art classes, engaging with small groups, mostly women and individuals unsure of their creative capabilities. My steadfast philosophy is that art is inclusive, providing therapeutic benefits and teachable skills. Art and creative endeavors are therapy.