Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Adas.
Hi Jennifer, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Drawing became one of my favorite hobbies growing up and eventually, I decided I would like to pursue a career that focused on creativity. After graduating from Central Michigan I attended the College for Creative Studies in Detroit and was introduced to many new artistic mediums. This helped set the stage for “Pet Portraits by Jen” which started from a tragedy on the worst day of my life and ended with a blessing. My dog, Makena, unexpectedly died from cancer and I wanted to do something special to honor her incredible life. I created a pet portrait of my best friend and as I shared it with others I was encouraged to do animal portraits professionally.
I enjoy giving back to people who want to honor their special living pets and also aid pet parents in transforming their sadness into a beautiful creation. After my past customers received their portraits, they expressed feelings of having a piece of their beloved family member back. I am honored and humbled that I’m entrusted to capture the beauty and goofiness of their treasured kin.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Pet Portraits by Jen has been as smooth as it could be for starting up a new small business. My first year was very successful in my hometown community at the Brighton Farmers Market and luckily I have been doing great since. All artists work hard to provide a beautiful piece of art for their customers. Because most of my work is custom, many people don’t understand handmade art takes time. Most artisans make less than minimum wage for one creation. The price includes our time selling at events, communicating with customers, and time creating the art piece. For the smallest size I offer it takes from 14 to 18 hours to complete. Unfortunately, uninformed people can be disrespectful when they hear the prices of any artist’s work. Educated people understand they are paying for the artists’ time for a one of a kind piece made with love that can be cherished forever. Customers who understand this say my prices are reasonable. I am presently working on having prints done of my work for people who are unable to afford my original portrait but love my style.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
The technique I use is called stippling which is the art or process of drawing using countless small dots or specks which creates the light and dark shading of the portrait. I specialize in capturing the personality of the pet I draw from the photo I receive and in talking with the customer. My love for animals helps me be passionate about the drawings I create and I have great customer service. I have many clients who return and order a portrait as a gift for a family member, themselves or a friend. One of my proudest moments was when I visited one of my customers houses and noticed immediately a whole wall display of my art pieces.
Medium- Bristol paper and artist pen
Sizes are from 9×12 to poster board size.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I discovered neighbors at the events become friends/mentors. Most vendors are supportive of each other. You can get many contacts going to a variety of events. I don’t rely on one avenue. I have been successful doing craft/art shows, farmers markets, and putting up postings on social media.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Jenniferadas.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php/?id=100063700704751
