Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Haley.
Jennifer, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I became an abstract artist strictly by default. I have always worked with my hands in one facet or another, but I really struggled to find a place where I resonated authentically. After much searching and grasping, there was the time that I was moving into yet another apartment in another city and I needed some artwork above my couch. There was this old luan door outside on my balcony and decided to paint it. It was incredible, I did anything I wanted with paint, crayons, oils, and it was intoxicating, the freedom of it was a relieved intensity, that’s when my journey as an abstract artist began.
Abstract art helped me realize that everything in life is an internal matter, not external. I believe that the most important and most difficult task of human existence is inner realization, this is the work of a lifetime. When I gave myself permission the be an abstract artist, I discovered I was not what I thought myself to be. The process of painting, being in the studio, is where I am safe to discover the complexities of who I am, resolve the dichotomies in my life, and contemplate this idea. My work reflects the quality of my mind during those times which is clear and happy.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
My work is mixed media, abstract art with a strong use of epoxy resin. Encapsulated between and within layers of epoxy resin are shapes and forms created with inks, dyes, pigments, oils and acrylics. This combination creates richness of color, profound depth with a hard, high gloss finish.
What responsibility, if any, do you think artists have to use their art to help alleviate problems faced by others? Has your art been affected by issues you’ve concerned about?
Absolutely! Artists have been the catalyst for Urban revitalization in many places, Wynwood District in Miami and FAT Village in Fort Lauderdale are perfect examples. These areas were abandoned areas with poor conditions and are now thriving art communities that unite the community and offer more opportunities for artists to showcase. That which accompanies communities that are undergoing Urban revitalization are new homes and businesses that are passionate about creating environments that are personal, beautiful, and engaging. I really enjoy creating with that as inspiration.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
My work can currently be seen in Onessimo Fine Art, 4530 PGA Blvd Palm Beach Gardens, the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society where I am part of the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society Artist in Residents Cooperative, 231 NW 2nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, and Lifestream Spa & Boutique located at 3045 N. Federal Hwy, Oakland Park. In January I will be exhibiting in the “Femme in Depth” show at the Holy Cross Dorothy Mangurian Comprehensive Women’s Center 1000 NE 56th St, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33334. The date is not secured yet, but I am grateful to be a part of this exhibition celebrating women.
Contact Info:
- Address: 231 NW 2nd Ave
Fort Lauderdale, Florid 33308 - Website: www.jenniferhaleystudio.com
- Phone: 954-288-0180
- Email: jen@jenniferhaleystudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferhaleystudio/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JenniferHaleystudio/
Image Credit:
Okolo Sandy
RJ Coleman
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