Lindsey Frances Jones

What do you remember learning about the process of visual storytelling as a child?

I think visual storytelling to me was part of all the children's books I loved to read as a kid. That's when I started to love the illustration! 

How did your parents and teachers influence your artistic pursuit?

My mom being an artist and crafter, having all of those kinds of supplies around, made me comfortable around the materials. It wasn't a seamless process of growing up with art around me to being an artist, but I definitely knew art was possible and everywhere. 

Who were some of your mentors and role models?

My mom and my paternal grandmother were both artists. So they influenced me greatly in that way! Recently I'd say my printmaking professors and co-artists/students in the print studio are my biggest influence and mentors. 

Was there a time in your life when you felt that art helped you get on the right path?

In the past couple of years my art, getting divorced, going back to graduate school, and living alone in a new way in New York City,  my art was the most important thing to align me to myself. 

Your artwork is so vibrant and colorful. How do you chose your color palettes?

I love color! I think I tend to color, and a lot of them. But something I like to do is have a lot of source materials in colors I like around me. So when I'm painting I might be looking at the colors of an old photograph or famous painting. 

What does it take to make it as an artist in New York City?

There are so many different ways to make it as an artist in New York City. For me, it means wearing a bunch of hats. I'm comfortable working a non-art job to support my growing art business. I think the goal is to work less and less away from your art, but in New York City that can take a while!

If you had a chance to live and work with a community of artists in a city other than New York, which city would you pick and why?

In the United States, I love Philadelphia because it's cheaper! I'd also love to work in a rural location, like the Berkshires, Maine, or Buck's County, or the Hudson Valley. I like both cities and the country I think for inspiration. There are a lot of artists that live and work in Philly. I also really like the art scenes and styles of the Netherlands and Scandinavia. 

Pricing an artwork is usually a decision that isn’t easy for artists. How do you decide on the price?

I've decided on using a metric per size of my piece. So if I am selling something that is 8 x 10 I decided what I price per square inch. I think that number is personal, but I think of it referring to the time and materials that go in. And then when you are selling more consistently at one price, you might change it. 

How does it feel to let go on an artwork you love?

It feels kinda scary but fun! I just sold an oil painting on canvas that meant a lot to me. Of course, I think all artists are afraid they're not good enough (at least I feel that way) so selling a piece means having to be okay with feeling vulnerable. 

What will be the theme of your next exhibit?

I'm not sure yet! But I am working on ideas for work that is about abstract cities with fish. I'd like to try mosaics but I have to keep learning to get there. 

As an art educator, what is one most important concept you want your students to remember after attending your workshops?

I think play and process are equally important. You have to be able to play at the same time you are learning something. Both are where the magic happens.