Student Artist Jackie Cohen on Inspiration and Defining Her Artistry
- Sm[ART] Commons
- Mar 7
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 21
Have you ever wondered what drives artists to create work that seems to so effortlessly convey their style? I believe this a concept many artists struggle with. As creatives it is in our nature to constantly observe the world around us, looking for inspiration in all the beauty we see. Sometimes this can be overwhelming, leading us into creative ruts, or worse comparing our work to other artists. Can you relate?
In my interview with Jackie Cohen, we talked about how she defines her artistry and how she finds inspiration to keep creating work that showcases her voice unapologetically.
Enaya: How would you define yourself and the work you create as an artist?
Jackie: I want to be defined as bold, grabbing at your attention. Yet also, I want it to make you feel something, feel connected to the world in some way.
E: So, what gives you inspiration for your work; do you call on any specific experiences, people, or concepts?
J: Anything to do with people has always inspired me. The concept of the intricate relationships from person to person, person to place, person to themselves, there are endless possibilities. Orange, or other opaque and bright colors that immediately grab your attention also influence my creativity. And, music, because of how it can be translated into 2d art! Any kind of scene with people in it, really.
E: What do you hope your art accomplishes, or what do you hope people get from viewing your work?
J: I want people to look at my art and be reminded of their human qualities. To feel emotion, to have fun, any kind of feeling. I hope it inspires others to create their own things, using their own hands. I want people to recognize the human need for connection, the human need for color. As well as to find beauty in otherwise mundane scenes.
E: As, you know we (the Sm[ART] Commons Blog) are holding a sticker contest this spring. You were one of the artists featured in the See Me sticker collective (2023); why did you choose to participate in that project?
J: I took an Introduction to Design class that had the See Me Sticker Collective as an assignment we had to do. I also thought it was a perfect way for artists to release expressive art for all to see, both local and worldwide, and what better art to release than a sticker representing yourself?
E: Fun, so what kinds of art initiatives would you like to see at MCLA in the future?
J: I would love to see more things like the See Me Sticker Collective in the future. Some kind of challenge perhaps to get creative juices flowing for all kinds of artists!
See the "Art call: Claiming Your Truth Sticker Contest" article for more information on how to apply to this semester's sticker contest!