Meet Jennifer Ko, one of my favorite Los Angeles based artists and a personal friend! Jen's painting span the spectrum of emotions from dark and moody to light and joyful. Above my desk hangs a framed floral watercolor painting by Jen in a palate of bright blues and bursts of pink. It's serene, lovely and a great source of inspiration and happiness for me while I work. For quite some time now I've wanted to share Jen's work and today I'm excited to feature her as this month's Maker Monday artist!
Q: How long have you been painting?
Jennifer Ko: I have been painting since I was little. Recently, I joined an artist studio space shared with several other artists in Downtown LA so that I can commit to painting more seriously. It has now been two years.
Q: How did you first discover your love for painting?
JK: As a little girl, I was shy and very soft-spoken. Painting was in many ways a form of therapy and the louder, braver part of myself. But, a discovering moment I remember actually feeling like I felt struck by painting was when I saw Francis Bacon's Three Studies for a Crucifixion at the Metropolitan Museum. The paintings really struck a chord with me.
Q: You paint a variety of subjects from portraits to florals and large abstracts. What is your favorite subject to paint?
JK: It really depends on my mood and day. I am the type of person who can only paint something if the subject resonates with me. One day, it could be orchids or the night sky, and in another day it could be Korean pop stars. Right now, I am painting a series of Kpop girls.
Q: You paint in a variety of mediums. What is your favorite?
JK: My favorite medium is cold pressed dyes that I pour onto the canvas. It is a very difficult medium and the end result is always surprising. Sometimes, it creates salt deposits and crystals, and other times, the color of the dyes bleed in together. It is a challenging process that always keeps me on my toes.
Q: What is your advice for other makers who want to turn their art into a business?
JK: To be consistent and develop a style that is unique and relatable to people.
Q: What is your dream project?
JK: I would love to create a large art installation in a public space, one that is accessible and available for everyone to experience.
For more of Jennifer's work you can visit her website and Instagram!
chelseatubbs says
I love this Leah! Meeting Jennifer at Freutcamp was so much fun (we were the first two there and she was the sweetest first impression of the weekend). She's beyond talented and I love love love the watercolor work! Thanks for sharing.
xo,
http://www.chelseaandthecity.com
Leah Bergman says
How cool! Yes, she really is the sweetest most down-to-earth person. I'm glad the two of you got the chance to connect!
Skye says
I spotted these watercolours on Instagram and had to come and have a proper look... Really beautiful.
Leah Bergman says
Thank you for stoping by! They really are beautiful. I highly recommend checking out her website as well. This is only a glimpse at the beautiful work she produces.
Alisa says
I absolutely love her art work, she's amazing:)
Leah Bergman says
I agree! She really is so talented. I could see one of her paintings fitting right in on your studio wall. 😉
Joelle says
Her work is just beautiful! Thank you for sharing!
Leah Bergman says
I couldn't agree more! I was happy to share it. 🙂
Erika says
Thanks for sharing this, her work is wonderful!
Leah Bergman says
I am such a fan of Jen's art, it was my pleasure sharing it.
Sarah @ *Tadaam! says
Beautiful pieces, thanks for sharing !
Clare says
Just stunning pieces!
Clare x
Alison says
Those florals are just so dreamy, stunning work! Thank you for sharing!
Tammy says
Love learning more about Jennifer. She was so sweet at freutcamp and is incredibly talented! Really enjoying "Maker Monday!"