Hi Jillian, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for sharing your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
I began painting in my early twenty’s after a friend put a paintbrush in my hand and said, “paint!” Since then, I have painted as much as possible, learning from various instructors, and practicing fine-art methods. When my husband became a pilot in the U.S. Army, I painted a helicopter to connect with a part of his aviation world.
My work took on an action-packed energy using a palette-knife-only approach to the canvas. From there it launched into a business where I’ve painted various aircrafts for all military branches. My work is sold in Military museum gift shops, trophy shops, and has been commissioned by the military community.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
A major part of my story is the active-duty military life and the unique challenges that come with it.
My husband is gone for various training and tours; we have two children. I am a full-time stay-at-home mom, single parenting when my husband is gone, and a business owner/artist. My time to paint is limited to nap times and after bedtimes. We have moved four times in 4 years and never know what each year holds for us!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
The exclusive use of the palette knife is the attention-grabbing abstract factor of my paintings that sets me apart from other fine art artists.
I complete every painting with oil paint and deliberate placement with strong knife swipes, making it feel in flight. I am very proud to paint for soldiers and their families who serve the country to give back to the military community.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Find someone whose work inspires you and is willing to discuss their method, and reach out.
Leap…Ask them questions. Ask them to study their work.
Ask to do sessions or classes with them…one of the beautiful things about art is that there is always something to learn and room for improvement. Be willing to feel uncomfortable to grow.
Pricing:
- $400 16×20″ Custom Originals
- $750 24×36″ Custom Originals
- $1000 30×40″ Custom Originals
- $20 11×17″ Prints
- $8 5×7″ Prints
Contact Info:
- Website: www.jillianphillipsart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillianphillipsart/
