Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Apelt.
Hi Jennifer, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
About 6 years ago, someone told me that painting is good for stress relief, and I should try it. I said I didn’t even know how to paint. I’ve never had any training except for middle school art class. It didn’t matter. I was told to get a canvas, a brush, and some paint. Then paint whatever I wanted. So, I did. I’ve learned over the years through YouTube videos. Fast forward to about 2 years ago. I decided to paint a portrait of my cousin’s husband’s dog. I showed it to people, and before long, I had other family and coworkers asking me to paint their pets.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Last year, I was diagnosed autistic, and I’ve been struggling with that, so painting helps me cope with the many situations in life I don’t understand and helps me escape life when it gets too difficult to handle. It is getting more and more difficult working as a nurse while being autistic with ADHD. As for challenges with my painting, I just tried painting human portraits, but that didn’t go over well. I’ve put that aside for now. I seem to do better with animals. Also, blending in my paintings is a current struggle.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Honestly, I’ve been a registered nurse for 20 years. I went to nursing school as a single parent after leaving an abusive marriage. Thanks to my family’s support, I was able to finish school and provide for my two daughters. I’ve worked in different areas of nursing, and I’m currently working in Endoscopy with Veterans. I just started my painting business last May. I am known for painting very expressive, real-looking animal eyes. I’m most proud that I’m able to paint while working full-time, and I surprise myself at how well I can paint. I never, in a million years, would have said I would be an artist. I specialize in acrylic paint on canvas. I also specialize in painting animals and pets.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I feel that my lack of fear in getting right into something and just doing it is the most important quality for my success. I also feel that being able to think about someone’s pet while I’m painting them helps me connect with the animal and bring out their personality.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jmariepaintings.shop
- Instagram: j.marie.paintings
- Facebook: Jennifer Apelt
