The Dreamer Painting

Jen Herling focused seriously on ballet and modern dance throughout her childhood and adult life. She has a BA in Performance Art from the University of MD, and performed extensively in New York City, Baltimore MD, San Francisco CA, and Washington DC. She dabbled in visual art throughout her life, but has very little formal training. In May 2015 she took an on-line art class that awoke her creative nature, and propelled her back into the art world using new and different tools. No stranger to discipline, she has dedicated herself to a demanding studio practice, and the creation of a business with the ultimte goal of becoming a full time artist. Jen currently lives in Boulder CO. My work is influenced by the natural world around me, my inner world, and the perceived separation between the two. My subconscious guides the content and emotion of my work. Curiosity motivates me to witness expressions of myself unfold. I'm continuously learning about myself through my creative process as a metaphor for how I live my life. Because of this connection between my internal and external existence painting provides a powerful outlet for healing and growth. The content of my work is driven by my desire to experience a more connected social existence that honors the relationship between human beings and nature. Thematically my work expresses feelings of isolation, loss, and grief balanced with innocence, hope, and strength. If my work can make people feel less alone, and more united in our existence, I believe it is successful.