Meet Jenny Woods
How did you get started in art?
"I grew up watching my mom paint and wanted to be like her. I wasn’t much of an artist as a child, but that changed once I got to high school. My art teacher took an interest in my work and it gave me confidence. By the end of my senior year in 1999, I had a decent portfolio put together for college. Luckily, they liked what they saw and granted me an art scholarship.
During those four years, I had an array of painting, drawing and graphic design courses. Because of my love of trees, I was painting landscapes. When I wasn’t painting, I was studying the human form in figure drawing class. My passion for portraits started after graduation."
How would you describe yourself as an artist? What do you consider your strong suit?
I would describe myself as a portrait artist. Although I love painting landscapes, portraiture is close to my heart. I’ve been commissioned to draw children, loved ones, and pets, but the majority of my work has been memorial portraits. It’s a gift that seems to really help people and that means everything to me.
It was the end of 2003 when a friend of mine was killed in Iraq. His sister asked me to paint a portrait of him for her mom. Although I was honored to do so, I was petrified that I wouldn’t do him justice. Fortunately, his mom loved it. So much so, that she insisted his portrait be displayed next to his casket at the funeral. I realized in that moment how important portraiture was to people. And how much it meant to me.
Now, twenty years later, I couldn’t tell you how many portraits I have done and had commissioned. I can say that I still enjoy doing it and seeing people happy never gets old.
What inspires you?
Music and creative people inspire me. Especially when I can connect with them on an emotional level. A lot of the subjects I’ve painted have gone through addiction and/or struggled with mental health. I chose these people because I can relate and creating their portraits is therapeutic. I put my heart into each piece, but it’s not just about me. It’s about everyone fighting their personal battles. Surviving them is the biggest inspiration of them all.
Thank your for visiting my site and getting to know me a bit. I would love to talk with you about any work you'd like done. Please don't hesitate to reach out.
- Jenny