Jen Frost Smith: Meet The Artist

How would you describe your work in 3 words?

Colorful, imperfect and emotional.

What do you listen to in the studio?

Sometimes I like silence. If I listen to music right now my top 3 artists are: Tierra Whack, Bill Callahan and Mount Kimbie.

Alternatively, what’s your favorite object in the studio?

Object? That word has always thrown me off for some reason. I love a good tiny brush, black paint and a fine tipped black marker. And all my tools lol.

How do you find inspiration?

Gosh, everywhere. Traveling, memories, vintage images, anything from the 60’s or 70’s, galleries and art magazines. I love rivers, watching the light change through the trees as the wind blows and large spaces of green grass.

The idea of Ruby City came to Linda in a dream. Have your dreams ever influenced your art?

Art is problem solving. Dreams help solve problems through symbolism. So, I would say yes, but not always in a profound way.

What does a typical day look like?

There are no typical days. I haven’t found any yet.

What’s your advice for younger artists?

Keep creating as much as you can. It’s not an easy road being a creative person. Seek inspiration, knowledge, challenge yourself and rest. Balance is important and it’s ok to rest when you need to. Feed your soul with what feels right. Most important is to trust your gut. If something feels sketchy, it probably is.

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