Today we’d like to introduce you to Jasmine Gonzales.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
I started drawing pretty much as soon as I could hold a crayon. My mother was especially encouraging. I think she knew I was an artist before I ever even realized it. She’s kept pretty much every scrap of paper I’ve ever drawn on a shelf in a closet. This type of fostering kept me motivated to continue to create art throughout my life. I find solace in art, and the process of creating something is incredibly therapeutic for me.
Please tell us about your art.
I haven’t ever had any formal training, except for the few art classes I took in school, so a lot of my techniques come from watching others, asking questions, and experimenting. Trying, failing, trying again is sometimes the best way to gain new skills. I mainly draw in ink and Prismacolor color pencils and paint in acrylics. Lately, I’ve stuck to painting on wood panels. It’s been fun to work on a new surface! I’m somewhat of a perfectionist, so I’m drawn to symmetry and the aesthetic of clean lines. I try to incorporate that into my art. I like to celebrate the female form because women are beautiful and graceful, and also strong and powerful. Showcasing women of color is also important to me as I feel we are underrepresented in art. I also believe that the energy I put into my art draws like energy from others to it.
Artists face many challenges, but what do you feel is the most pressing among them? Any advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective artists?
I think one of the biggest challenges artists have today is finding that community or “family.” It’s so easy to feel lonely or isolated. A lot of people may feel like art is a constant competition or battle with the next artist, but really the next artist is where you can find your biggest support. I think one of the ways to connect with other artists is by engaging and reaching out on social media.
There are so many talented artists out there that by just showing your support and encouragement can help you gain a new friend. Another way is to try to hang out at galleries or art collectives and just talk and introduce yourself to others. I have been beyond blessed by finding my art family at Cherry Cola Dog. All of the artists there have not only been kind to me but really embraced me with open arms. They’ve coached and guided me, offered advice and tips, and just really been an amazing source of constant support. We really believe in one another and try to hype each other up. We push each other to keep going and do and be better. It’s never a competition between us because for us we all genuinely want each other to succeed, and when one person succeeds, we all do. I believe it’s so important to have a group of other creatives who can help you, you can lean on, and who can help you get opportunities that might not have once been available to you.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My work can be seen most easily on Instagram as I post there most frequently. Otherwise, it can be seen in person on display at Cherry Cola Dog in Austin. I am usually there on Saturday nights for our art parties and often am live painting. I encourage people to talk to me during these times to find out a little more about a piece and myself! Supporting me can be in various ways, whether it’s sharing my art and posts, telling a friend about my work, or buying pieces, I appreciate it all.
Contact Info:
- Email: jasmine.jrg3796@gmail.com
- Instagram: jrg3796
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