During the pandemic, Jill Pearson, a professional illustrator with a fine arts degree from the University of the Arts, felt a growing dissatisfaction while working from home in Downingtown. Despite her work in Photoshop as a freelance illustrator helping her make ends meet, Pearson yearned for a more fulfilling creative outlet.
In 2021, she rekindled her passion for painting, returning to her artistic roots without expectations of accolades. However, in 2024, her work earned her first place in the mixed media category at the Lititz Outdoor Fine Art Show near Lancaster.
Pearson’s background in digital art provides her with a distinctive perspective on contemporary art. While today’s artists are often tech-savvy, few possess the depth of digital art knowledge that Pearson commands. Her mixed-media creations, which combine acrylic paint, drawing materials, and collages from various sources, possess a unique style that straddles the line between abstract and landscape, provoking a sense of familiarity in the unfamiliar.
“I start off completely intuitively, building and removing layers,” she describes. “I’ll use an orbital sander to create textures. The composition unfolds on the canvas rather than starting with a sketch.”
Pearson likens her artistic approach to that of a gardener, allowing her art to evolve organically instead of following a strict blueprint. “Abstract art is more challenging because there’s no initial idea or sketch. I edit the work as I get closer to the end, utilizing my design skills to refine the composition,” she explains.
This technique has led to opportunities to sell her art in places like Wayne Art Center and Historic Yellow Springs, culminating in her participation in Lititz, which she had been planning since the previous winter.
On July 27, while presenting her art at Lititz Spring Park, Pearson felt a mix of excitement and doubt as she witnessed other artists receiving awards. When a representative approached her booth with a blue ribbon, it took her by surprise, filling her with joy.
Earning an award not only boosted her confidence but also validated her as an artist, opening avenues for greater exposure in galleries and exhibitions.
“I aim to leverage this recognition to reach out to better galleries and art fairs. It’s been just three years since I returned to painting, and I feel there’s so much more I want to achieve,” Pearson expressed, mentioning her plans to apply to prestigious events like the Long’s Park Art Festival.
Winning the award at Lititz represents a significant milestone in Pearson’s artistic journey, marking the beginning of new opportunities. Armed with this newfound legitimacy, Pearson is set to make her mark as the artist she has always aspired to be.