Leslie Tucker Jenison: An Inspiration Locavore
I knew Leslie Tucker Jenison would be a fun person to know when she zipped up to a gathering at Karey Bresenhan’s Franch in a Mini Cooper. Leslie draws inspiration for her artwork from her current location in Texas and also her former home in Kansas: The language of my work draws inspiration from the world around me: natural surfaces, repeating patterns, music, and the people in my life. Leslie (along with Jamie Fingal) is also an active curator with the exhibit Beneath the Surface currently on tour. Stop by Leslie’s blog to see her ink drawings on fabric, handmade gifts from her daughters, updates on her beautiful garden, and more.
1. Why are you participating in the ONE fundraiser for the American Cancer Society?
I have been an enthusiastic supporter of Fiberart For A Cause since the beginning. My mother was a breast cancer survivor. Unfortunately, I have many friends who have battled breast and other forms of cancer. My participation is a small way of contributing toward research and better treatment solutions. I love the “grassroots” feel of this: that so many people making small financial contributions can make such a big difference. It inspires me on many levels.
Silence by Leslie Tucker Jenison. This artwork will be available during the ONE fundraiser on February 16.
2. Where do you find inspiration?
Inspiration comes from many sources: observations in my garden, repeating patterns, natural or political events. There are times when something as simple as the piece of cloth I am doing surface design-work on will evolve into an idea for a piece. As an artist, I think it is important to stay in the moment and spend time observing.
Heartland #5: Field Burn This piece is part of a series called “Heartland”. The series explores the meaning of home and place. This particular piece is constructed of deconstructed screenprinting of ProcionMX dye onto bamboo batting and facial cloths, organza, and stitch, and is mounted onto black felt over stretched canvas. It will be part of a show opening in early Feburary, 2011, at the Copper Shade Tree Gallery in Round Top, Texas.
3. What are you working on in the studio right now?
I’m working on several things: a 30-day challenge of small drawings using a ruling pen on cloth, one per day, done in 30-minutes. I’m finishing a piece for an upcoming juried exhibition at the Copper Shade Tree Gallery in Round Top, Texas, which opens in February. I’m also participating in a year-long project called the Sketchbook Challenge, which I hope will inspire others to participate. I am also preparing to do surface design on cloth for a new quilted construction.
4. Do you collect art? If so, how do you know a piece is right for your collection?
I do collect art. I only purchase artwork that speaks to me, that I respond to. I don’t care who has made the art: that is not the most important thing to me, although I love owning work by artists I know. If I fall in love with a piece of art and decide to purchase it, I have never regretted buying it. I enjoy looking at the art in my home. I can always find a place for something new that “speaks to me”.
5.What advice do you have for new art collectors/new Patrons of ONE?
My advice is that, if you see a piece offered in the ONE fundraising event, purchase it. It is truly a “win-win” situation: the American Cancer Society receives needed money to fund research and the collector gets a piece of art! Buying art that you respond to will never disappoint.
