I Believe In Artists: Jennifer Eddie

Artist Jennifer Eddie

I'm so pleased to have the opportunity to share the art and thoughts of another talented artist with you today as part of my "I Believe In Artists" series.  

I'm happy that these interviews have managed to include a diverse sample of artists so far and yet at the same time, I believe they have demonstrated that most artists have many of the same joys and struggles in common.

I'm certain more than a few of you will recognize some of your joys and struggles in the words of artist Jennifer Eddie, just as you will recognize your own humanity in the faces of her portraits.  

May art continue to unite us all while still celebrating the beauty of our differences.

'Laura Mvula' Oil on Canvas Block by Jennifer Eddie

Question: I know art speaks its own language but if you had to describe your work in only six words, what would they be?

Jennifer: Capturing emotions in the human face.

'Andy Murray' Pencil on 130gsm Cartridge Paper By Jennifer Eddie

Question: Who is your favorite artist (in any medium) and how do they inspire you?

Jennifer: So difficult to choose one.  I first came across the work of Lucian Freud when I did a portraiture summer school at Edinburgh College of Art.  When I saw the different colours he used in 'A Sleeping Head' it was a revelation and completely changed my approach to the subject of portraiture.  

'Big Smile' Pencil on 130gsm Cartridge Paper By Jennifer Eddie

Question: What inspires you to create?

Jennifer: The human face.  It is fascinating.  It is where your emotions are on display.  Faces full of character and a life well lived are particularly inspiring. The ones that have a story to tell. I want to capture that.

'Cuba Gooding Jr' Pencil on 130gsm Cartridge Paper by Jennifer Eddie

Question: What is your favorite part of your creative process?

Jennifer: I do love it when I'm working on a portrait and it all just comes together. You see the person emerge. So satisfying!  But the whole creative process is a joy for me. Once I get into my studio I am very happy. When I am 'in the flow' I forget about everything.

'Sandi Toksvig' Coloured Pencil on 130gsm Cartridge Paper By Jennifer Eddie

Question: What is the most challenging part of your creative process and how do you meet that challenge?

Jennifer: Getting myself into my studio!  I do procrastinate quite a bit and social media can be very distracting!  But probably the biggest challenge for me is believing in myself and being true to the art I want to create.  I recently joined an art club, partly as a way of getting more involved in the local art community but mainly to challenge myself. It has been a positive experience for me. Working alongside other artists is pushing me to go in new directions and try different techniques.  And I seem to be a little more motivated about getting into the studio!  I am still working on the self-belief but my club is so supportive and encouraging that I feel much more confident about my art and the direction I want to take.

'Mother' Coloured Pastel Pencil on Paper

  
Question: And finally, what does "believing in art" mean to you?

Jennifer: Believing in art defines who I am.  It is an essential part of my life - like breathing.

Thank you, Jennifer for sharing your art and your passion for art with us.

You can learn more about Jennifer and her art on her web site at JenniferEddie.com.  Some of her art is available at artfinder.com/jennifer-eddie and be sure to connect with her on her facebook page: facebook.com/jennifereddieartist

Click here to find more artist interviews and learn how you can apply to be featured.

Until next time, happy creating!

Peace, Love and Art,
Victoria