Check Out Jennifer Alice’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Alice

Jennifer, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I am a Michigan-based artist who has been working in multiple mediums since 2002, but in recent years I’ve fallen hopelessly in love with watercolor. My work draws inspiration from the vibrant hues of nostalgia and the stark landscapes of my Midwestern roots, bringing out the beauty in everyday scenes with a unique, unfiltered perspective.

Living in Kalamazoo with my partner-in-crime, Eric, and our Burmese/Russian Blue mix cat, Smokey Joe Robinson, I continue to explore the play of bright colors and strong shadows, capturing the essence of the world around me, nostalgia, and humor.

My journey as an artist took an unexpected turn in 2005 when I had to leave my art education program after a severe battle with toxic shock syndrome, but this experience has only deepened my commitment to my craft. Today, my pieces can be found in personal collections across the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey as an artist has been filled with obstacles, both external and internal. Early on, I struggled with a lack of self-confidence and constant fears about networking, finding it difficult to put myself out there and make connections in the art world. Imposter syndrome would often creep in, leaving me doubting my abilities and questioning whether my work was truly worth sharing.

Balancing my full-time job with time for art has also been a constant challenge, as I navigate the daily demands of work while nurturing my creative passions. Leaving my art education program in 2005 after a severe health crisis with toxic shock syndrome was a turning point; it not only disrupted my artistic path but also left me questioning if I’d ever find my way back in addition to the trauma that comes with it all.

But despite these setbacks, I am consistently learning to push through, rediscovering my passion and making space for art in my life on my own terms.

I’m still working on all of this, though!

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a painter with a deep love for watercolor, a medium that I specialize in and that truly reflects my style and vision. Though I began my journey with oils, I eventually fell in love with the gentle, calming nature of watercolors, which allows me to cptaure the fleeting beauty of everyday moments in a unique way.

My work is often inspired by my childhood here in the Midwest, for better or worse! Food, nostalgic scenes, liminal spaces, and the animal world have all taken a front row in my art career. My very favorite series has been my Midwestern Gothic watercolor series, which is a series of still life/landscape watercolor paintings featuring every day (slightly spooky) liminal spaces.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I would encourage everyone – even those that claim that they are “not artistic” to create. It’s never too late and it doesn’t have to be perfect! In my day job, I work in a senior living community and have had the opportunity to host painting and art classes. Residents that have never picked up a paintbrush have created beautiful works of art! It just takes the willingness to try.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jenniferalice.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wildjamarts
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wildjamart
• Other: https://wildjamarts.myshopify.com/