Jessie McCormick
What first inspired you to try art?
My first art experience where I wanted to try and make something outside of school art class was just out of high school. I was so used to being able to express myself in the class that I wanted to carry on with that feeling even after school had ended. It brings me so much calmness and joy that I will continue to make art throughout my life.
Was there ever a moment you wanted to quit art all together, and if so what brought passion and inspiration back?
There have definitely been hard times where I get frustrated and have tough days, but I really believe that as long as you are making art for yourself and because of how it makes you feel as a person, then you will always find inspiration to create. It really makes it worth it when somebody loves the pieces as much as you do, it bring all the joy to the surface.
Have you gone to art school or are you self taught? If you’re self taught what resources or exercises did you use to learn?
I have only ever attended art classes in high school and from then on have been self taught. I just try to make what I like and create things that make me happy.
What is the most challenging part about being an artist for you? How did you overcome that challenge?
For me the most challenging part is wanting to be able to paint full time and not have to have a 9 to 5 job. Finding ways to make it become a full time I come has been challenging but as the time goes on I do see how much growth I have made as a small one women ran business.
What does art mean to you?
Art is freedom, it is calming and accepting. Art can make you feel all the feelings you have been trying to ignore but it can also bring so much joy and happiness as you create. There is no other feeling like standing back and looking at a piece that you created and know how much time and effort was put into it, and having people appreciate it makes it all so amazing.
What would you recommend to new artists trying to build a career? What are the keys to success?
Just keep going. Keep creating and stay focused on your goal, if you work hard and never stop then you will succeed! That’s what I keep telling myself anyways!
What would you go back and tell your younger artistic self if you could?
Never give up, don’t listen to the negative people or background noise and just focus on your goal. People come and go, things change, but art is forever.
Where do you see yourself in the future? What are some of your goals?
I truly see myself living somewhere quiet and peaceful where I can spend my time creating art with my dog by my side. I hope to be able to go from working my 9 to 5 and creating nights and weekends, to working a part time job and creating more, and one day I hope to be a full time artist! As of now I am aiming for the part time work and am looking to gain more customers and more artistic knowledge!
What drives the inspiration in your paintings? How would you describe your style?
I have always believed that things are very black and white, but that a picture can tell a thousand stories. I love creating a mix of black and white shadow art along with a mixed media book aspect that can tell a story and explain what a piece is all about. The pieces I create have so much meaning to me and each have such a special story to tell. I am inspired by the people in my life as well as the experiences I have lived through, and that idle what motivates me to create.
Instagram: paintedbyjessie