Jennifer Valenzuela

Nature is wisdom and wisdom is deep. When I speak of the natural world I am referring to the elements, sky, all lands, flora, fauna, and the universe of course. My work is grounded in a contemporary surrealistic aesthetic that invites the imagination to flourish and to seek wisdom within. My imagined landscapes are interpretations of the wisdom I take from observing the natural world.
Native Hawaiian culture and language is rife with poetic metaphors for nature and life. I often (pair) my pieces with ancient Hawaiian teachings called ‘Olelo No’eau’s. I incorporate this native wisdom to give a literal depth of meaning, while inspiring the composition. Exploring a visual representation of these ancient teachings disseminates and reinforces the contemporary relevance of Native Hawaiian culture for others to access. These teachings can pave a path to finding the wisdom needed to flow graciously through our daily lives.

Could you tell us a little more about your background and how you began creating art?

I was intrigued by visual art and creating art at a young age. My grandma was an artist, and recognizing this in me, purchased an oil paint set in for me in the 2nd grade. The first painting I chose to create with those paints was a landscape of Crater Lake in OR. That experience solidified my love of finding inspiration in nature and landscapes. As I matured my interest and passion evolved and eventually I found myself earning a BFA in studio painting and launching my art career in San Francisco during the early 2000’s. In 2008 I moved to Maui, HI, which ignited my inspiration and creativity to a level I’d never known before. The magic and history of these islands is rich, unyielding and a constant source of fresh and exciting intrigue.

What does your art aim to say to its viewers?

My art aims to invite the viewers to think deeper as they look closer at the messages and symbols in my pieces. I do not need to say anything to the viewers; but to instead elicit thought. I would like viewers to wander into my paintings and allow themselves to ponder, contemplate time, space, sense of self, and philosophy among other things.

Can you tell us about the process of creating your work? What is your daily routine when working?

My daily routine depends on what stage I am at in the creation process and how many paintings I am working on at once. Either way, by 8 am I typically make my way out across a small field to a 40’ container that I have converted into a studio at the edge of our property. From my studio I find inspiration in the land and water surrounding me. I can watch the reflection of the sunrise on the westside mountains as well as check the surf on the North and South sides. I usually have three or more pieces I am working on at once so I assess, mix my pallets, prep my space, and get to work. If I am epoxying there is a lot of prep to complete beforehand, including ensuring he room is dust free, setting the room temperature and humidity, prepping the painting or print, and always being sure that my speaker is charged and keeping me alive with tunes.

What is the essential element in your art?

There are many essential elements in my art but if I had to boil it down to one, I suppose it would be the invitation to seek wisdom in nature.

In your opinion, what role does the artist have in society?

Art is a reflection, an introspection, an opportunity to consider, and to be affected by. Art articulates what we often cannot find words to say. The artist is the translator that plugs into the collective consciousness to express what we all feel and experience universally.

Website: www.jennifervalenzuelaart.com