Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Kinckiner
Hi Jen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Wow, this is a difficult question but I’m happy to share my story both as a SCAD alumni and designer. Regarding my art journey I started when I was about 7, drawing seahorses and rainbows for other students in my art class. I was always into drawing and pop culture, often trying to redraw my favorite characters like Scooby Doo or Garfield. Flash forward to 2018, looking around at art colleges for animation initially and SCAD Savannah caught my eye. Between the walkability, beautiful nature, history, and accessibility as well as the school’s reputation I found my place. I attended SCAD from 2019-2023 as an undergraduate majoring in motion media design. Unfortunately COVID would leave me at home during my sophomore year, nonetheless I would pursue a secondary degree in illustration at SCAD which I am finishing online, beginning in early 2024. Today, I’m continuing to hone in illustration skills and pursue career endeavors in education within Manhattan while also occasionally helping friends with animation projects online.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been a roller coaster as an artist. When I first came to SCAD late 2019, I was hopeful I’d be handed some sort of big job at Nickelodeon but the world doesn’t work like that. Even during my foundation classes I struggled with certain assignments or even group projects but this is crucial to growth. Without obstacles, you cannot grow both as an individual and artist.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As previously mentioned, I’m a freelance illustrator and motion designer. I primarily work with 2D motion media and specialize in frame by frame animation as well as title sequence and entertainment inspired work. These days I’ve been pushing more on the illustrative side, changing my focus from concept art for animation to advertising, editorial, and entertainment illustration. I still push myself to incorporate motion in my digital art pieces if possible and practice skills I lack in such as 3D or minimalist shape motion. Regarding artistic achievements, I’m most proud of the magazine cover I designed last year for the 2024 Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Savannah. It is a bit outside my usual work and not illustration, however it was my first form of work outside an internship and taught me crucial publication skills and photo editing. I guess what sets me apart from others is my ability to create art just by using powerful shape language and successful narrative within my pieces, having a distinctive style.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
For collaboration, during school it would be both with other students, professors, as well as any locals needing a specific skill for a project paid or unpaid. I’m always looking to work with others, as it creates community and is crucial for general experience as a professional designer. Right now, I’ve been finding animation work through past peers online and work through group chats and emails remotely. I am generally open to both remote and within the area collaboration. I’m generally open to emails, or even connecting via social media such as Instagram or LinkedIn.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jennkinckiner.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cybermotionz/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-kinckiner-718786169
