Mixed Media Artist
Leslie Tucker Jenison
Leslie Tucker Jenison on Mixed Media Art
By Jackie Marsal
I recently sat down with Leslie to talk about her work in the industry as a Mixed Media Artist.
How long have you been a mixed media artist?
Although I have been a quiltmaker for over 30 years, I have been dabbling in mixed media for about ten years, and more intensively in the last 3-5. I love combining cloth and paper, and it seems that unconventional objects and materials frequently find their way into my work.
How would you describe your style?
This has always been a difficult question for me because I do both abstract and representational work. I lean toward abstraction because I believe it invites the viewer to create a unique dialogue with the artwork.
Apart from creating art, what else do you do within the industry?
Aside from consuming loads of products? (Insert laughter here) I love to teach, and also to curate exhibitions. Along with my friend and teaching partner, Jamie Fingal, I have taught nationally at a variety of venues, and curate an annual exhibition that debuts each year at the International Quilt Festival, Long Beach, as one half of “Dinner at Eight Artists”.
What is the most challenging part about creating mixed media art?
Mixed media art, like any other medium, has a wide array of materials and techniques that can be incorporated into the process. Part of the fun and challenge is to develop a comfort level with these things. Like any other form of art, the most important thing is to “do the work”. Just get in there and make lots of mistakes, take a path with no particular destination. This is when the best “aha” moments happen to me.
What’s the best advice you could give someone who wants to try quilting or textile art for the first time?
Find a fun group, class, or teacher (you might have to shop around a bit) that appeals to you. Look at all the yummy “how to” books, visit a few quilt shops, and find a comfortable place to dive in and swim. Plenty of people do this on their own, but for most, there is something wonderful about finding a group environment to share and learn from. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes because you will probably learn more from those than anything else. Just start making stuff and have fun! Surround yourself with people who support you and lift you up. Life is way to short for anything else.
Click here to see what scissors the Mixed Media Artists are using
About the Author:
Jackie Marsal Havel's Sewing
Jackie Marsal has been with Havel’s for seven years and is the Account Executive for Havel’s Sewing.
