Today we’d like to introduce you to Jessica Sonnenthal.
Jessica, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My first introduction to art began at the age of 11, when my aunt, a fellow artist, gifted me with my first visit to an art class. While attending the class, I fell in love with art as a medium of expression. Initially drawing inspiration from Rembrandt and Renoir, I always knew I wanted to pay homage to the art of realism. With oil on canvas being my primary medium of choice.
Before stepping out on my own and beginning my artistic journey, I began working in the Contemporary Art Scene as the Marketing Coordinator for MOCA, The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles and then by helping with the LA Art Show in 2016. With more than 25 years of experience as an artist, I was finally ready to communicate my own art to the world.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The biggest struggle for me was my lack of confidence and the certainty that I could be a successful artist on my own. I worked with various mentors growing up who taught me techniques and helped me develop my skill but at the end of the day, you have to believe in yourself and your own capabilities.
Please tell us more about your art.
I am an independent realism artist based in Los Angeles and I work mainly from home with my medium of choice being oil on canvas. My website jmona.art showcases my early work as well as my new work. I take commissions from time to time but I mostly paint what I see or from photos that I have taken that have inspired me along the way. You can see my process in my paintings which display a transformative series of work from early childhood into adulthood. Each painting is like a moment in time brought to life on canvas. You don’t need to see the photo to know that each painting has its own soul, it’s own story to tell.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
To me success is knowing you put in the work to do your best and pushed yourself to the best of your capability. Initially, it was so hard for me to believe in myself but once I made the effort and let go of my fears, I immediately became successful. Success is an attitude and it starts with you.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jmona.art
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @jmona.art
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