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?
I’ve been making quilts for over 30 years, but I’ve been dabbling in mixed media for about 10 years, and more intensively in the last 3 to 5. I love combining cloth and paper. A lot of 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 probably lean more towards abstraction because I believe it invites the viewer in 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? (Laughter) Well, I also love to teach and curate exhibitions. With my friend and teaching partner Jamie Fingal, I’ve taught nationwide at a variety of different venues. I also curate an annual exhibition that debuts each year at the International Quilt Festival in Long Beach, as one half of “Dinner at Eight Artists.”
What is the most challenging part about creating mixed media art?
Mixed media, like any other medium, has a wide variety 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 a lot of mistakes, and take a path with no particular destination. This is when the best “aha” moments happen for me.
What’s the best advice you could give someone who wants to try quilting or textile art for the first time?
I would try to find a fun group or class that appeals to you (you might have to shop around a little bit). 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 people I think there’s 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 you do. Just start making stuff and have some fun! Surround yourself with people who support you and lift you up. Life is way too 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.