Jessica Libor
About the Artist
Jessica Libor is an American artist who received her Master of Fine Arts from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in 2014. She works in her studio in Philadelphia, and also serves as an art professor at Harcum College. She is also the host of the Inspired Painter Podcast, teaches at the Visionary Artist’s Salon, and curates at Era Contemporary Gallery.
Artist Statement
My work is about the feminine protagonist creating her own personal mythology and meaning. In life, our choices help us discover who we are and who we are going to be. It is through this process of self discovery that we begin to know ourselves. Through using the symbology and tropes found within fairytales, I explore the concept of the virgin’s promise: the process of self discovery that the heroine faces that forces her to turn inwards and to find her own identity; making choices all her own against prevailing odds. It is through strengthening her own sense of self and ownership of her destiny that the protagonist creates the ability to improve her own life and the lives of those within her kingdom. Other concepts that relate to my work are the reflection of nature mirroring the feminine biology and spirit, the use of costuming and fashion to create identity, and animal symbology.
My mediums include oils, mixed media, precious metals, dry mediums such as pastel and charcoal, and sometimes film and installation. I love the idea of making a precious object, such was created historically with the use of precious materials. When I use gold and silver leaf, I am conscious of this alchemical and sacred history as I create my own precious object imbued with ideas and meaning.
What is your “Dreamland” ?
I paint my dreamland! I always try to see the magic in things, and my imagination runs wild when I am in nature; seeing the flora and fauna and imagining the mythical creatures that might inhabit the woods. I imagine myself a queen of a magical domain, where anything is possible, and paint women, animals and dreamy landscapes that are birthed from this world. The lushness and beauty of this world is important to me, and I love depicting beautiful flowers, different rich textures in the dresses my protagonists wear, and portraying expressions in my models to connect with the viewer and draw them into my world.
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