Jessica Swift
Artist | Surface Pattern + Fabric Designer | Author | Online Educator
Hi! I'm Jess. Nice to meet you, new friend!
I believe in the power of art-making as a tool for radical self-care. I make art because it helps me process my inner world, and I feel better when I do.
And I’m on a mission to help people feel better through art. Whether it’s taking a class with me and making art together (so fun!), reading my books and using my oracle decks, putting my art prints on your wall, sewing with my fabric, or licensing my artwork, I want to add some hope, color, and creativity to your world — to help you feel a little bit brighter and a little bit less alone.
Yes, YOU!
My Process
Take a look!
My Story
I’ve never had a real job. I have a BFA in oil painting from Ithaca College, but I'm self-taught in everything I do today.
Growing up in Boulder, CO, some of my earliest memories are of making things with my mom and of drawing at my Grandma Nancy's kitchen table (she was a painter, too!).
I started my business at age 23 (somewhat on a whim), after a successful weekend-long outdoor art show in Denver, where I was surrounded by people making a living from selling art. I thought "if they can do it, I can do it, too!" And so that's what I set out to do from that moment on.
The years to follow were filled with passion, excitement, lots of art-making, lots of learning and figuring things out, and lots of mistakes.
I moved to Portland, OR in June 2012 with my husband, Ryan, our 2 cats, and a trunk full of glossy paint. I still live in Portland with my two kids, but the cats have both died. And so has my husband. Life delivered a massive curve ball when Ryan died unexpectedly in August 2018, while I was pregnant with kiddo #2. It was without a doubt the hardset things I've faced so far in my life. And, amazing things have also emerged from his death and helped me through. Both/And.
So now it’s me, the babes, and 2 new young cats named Louis and Jellybean, and we're a-ok. Thanks to this creative outlet I'm blessed and grateful to call my business, we're thriving, growing, and embracing joy and beauty the best we can. What else can you do, really?
more about me
TIDBITS
I'm a solo mama of these two amazing young kiddos. →
I'm left-handed.
I'm a homebody and I love a good routine.
I used to be a singer-songwriter (and I still write songs from time to time).
I was in an a capella group in college!
I love cats. And otters. And llamas. And basically all animals, if I'm honest.
My favorite musician is Gregory Alan Isakov.
I dream of one day living on a farm.
My favorite color combination is orange and green.
I'm a Leo (Capricorn Rising).
photo credits: Gwyn LaSpina
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