Today we’d like to introduce you to Jill Whit
Hi Jill , thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am a versatile artist based in Salt Lake City, Utah, with a lifelong passion for art. While traditional schooling didn’t captivate me as art did, I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Printmaking from Utah State University. Beyond graduation, I delved into the world of tattooing, a craft I continue to practice. My true artistic calling, however, lies in fine art, particularly in painting and sculpture. Over the years, I have explored various mediums, including paper mache, ceramics, and most recently, airbrushing.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey has been relatively smooth, although breaking into the tattoo industry as a female presented its challenges. However, I have navigated my way through it. I am grateful to be part of a supportive community in this city. I cherish the chance to organize intimate art shows in a smaller setting, where the community wholeheartedly embraces and supports them. Their enthusiastic participation fulfills all my artistic aspirations.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I explore a variety of artistic mediums, initially beginning with acrylic painting in collage, before venturing into printmaking where I got into relief and intaglio techniques. I haven’t done much since then, other than some screen printing and riso printing. Ceramics captured my attention in recent years, with hand-building and glazing becoming my preferred methods. In 2023 I showcased life-size body sculptures in paper mache at a solo exhibition. Currently, my focus has been on airbrush, and I recently displayed a series of nude self-portraits in an exhibition titled “I’ve been thinking about me, Actually.” I tend to move from one project and medium to the next. Resisting any defined style to allow my creativity to evolve organically. For me, art is my life and because of that it will continue to change.
Beyond visual art, I am deeply engaged in music, collaborating with close friends in a band where vulnerability and profound meaning converge. I write all the songs but the project is very open and collaborative. I recently released my latest single, “A Sign” through Orindal Records. This introspective song captures the emotional journey of finding it harder to connect as time passes. It emerges as a heartfelt ode to the profound emotions that accompany the process of change. “A Sign” invites listeners to reflect on moments that serve as markers of life’s transitions and to look for signs nudging us towards a quest for meaningful connections, amidst the nuances of growing older.
I find joy in intertwining my artistic expressions. Whether through art exhibitions with performances with my band, crafting stage backdrops, or designing show posters, I love creating something special and intimate.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I’ve discovered that immersing myself in a community of fellow creatives has been a transformative experience. While much of my creative journey has been solitary, the true magic lies in the connections with like-minded individuals.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jillwhitart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jillwhit_/?hl=en
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBOVT70tO9pT3wJObgjjfcw
- Other: https://jillwhit.bandcamp.com/
