An Interview with Jennifer Bec Hirshfield

What was your experience like studying under Manuel Neri and Squeak Carnwath at UC Davis?

"I studied under Manuel Neri and Squeak Carnwath at UC Davis, both of whom are influential Bay Area Figurative painters. Their teachings heavily influenced my approach to painting, particularly in terms of the loose strokes and heavy application of paint in my work. I learned about the importance of capturing the energy of my subjects, which is evident in my paintings today. They were both great mentors and teachers who helped shape my artistic vision. I'm very grateful for the time I spent studying under them."

Can you talk about your process for creating a painting?

"My process for creating a painting begins with a deep connection to my subject matter, which is often of people or animals interacting with nature. I start with a rough sketch to work out composition and composition elements. Once I have a clear idea of what I want to create, I begin to apply paint to the canvas with a heavy hand, using a variety of media to create texture and depth. I paint with an intentional and active mindfulness, allowing myself to fully immerse in the present moment and capture the energy of the subject in my painting."

What are the various types of media you use in your paintings?

"I use a variety of media to create texture and depth in my paintings. I often use earthen materials and different types of paint to create a multilayered effect. I enjoy experimenting with other types of media, such as fabrics and metals - each one has its own unique properties which create a more dynamic and interesting surface.”

Can you speak to the role of mindfulness in your painting process?

"Mindfulness plays a crucial role in my painting process. I paint with an intentional and active mindfulness, allowing myself to let go of the past and future, and focus on the present moment. This focus on the present enables me to fully immerse myself in the painting process and capture the energy of my subjects in my work. When you enter this zone, the right brain takes over and the creative process flows. Mindfulness also helps me to be more aware of the materials I am using and to make more intentional choices about color and composition."

How is color important in your paintings?

"Color is an important element in my work. I often use an unconventional palette of colors to create a dynamic and unusual composition that remains harmonious with the perception of the viewer. I use color to create a sense of depth and movement in my paintings, and to evoke different emotions. I also like to play with color in a way that makes the paintings feel energetic and alive."

Can you talk about the role of nature in your art?

"My subject matter often derives from my need to connect with nature, which I believe to be a universal human necessity. I am deeply inspired by the natural world and my paintings often depict landscapes, animals, and other elements of the environment. I try to capture the energy and beauty of nature in my work, and to convey the importance of preserving it for future generations."

Can you tell us about your use of figures in your paintings?

My fundamental approach to figurative painting is derived from the Bay Area Figurative Movement, a mid-20th century art movement made up of a group of artists (such as David Park, Richard Diebenkorn, and Elmer Bischoff) in the San Francisco Bay Area who abandoned working in the style of Abstract Expressionism and idealized a return to figuration in painting which included important subject matter that grounded their compositions. The figures I paint are often depicted in natural settings, and I try to capture the energy and connection between the figure and the environment. I believe that the figures I paint are an extension of nature, and I try to convey this through my use of color, composition, and brushwork."

What are your future plans and goals as an artist?

"In the future, I plan to continue exploring the universal human need to connect with nature in my work. I want to push the boundaries of my art and see where it takes me. My goal as an artist is to create work that resonates with people and makes them feel connected to nature and one another."

What advice would you give to aspiring artists?

"My advice to aspiring artists is to follow your passion and to never give up. It's important to be true to yourself and to create art that is authentic to you. Experiment with different media and techniques, and always be open to learning and growing. It's also important to find your own voice and to not be afraid to take risks. As an artist, it's important to be patient and persistent. It takes time and hard work to develop your craft and to build a body of work that you're proud of."

Interview conducted by:
Nancy Witherell
Nancy Witherell Art Consultant
January, 2023

Nancy Witherell is the principle art consultant at Nancy Witherell Art, a premier art consultancy group located in Santa Rosa California.