As I grow older, I am learning that life revolves around relationships. I’ve heard people come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. Those who enter for only a season are meant to be enjoyed while present, and their memories are cherished after they’ve gone. Then, there are those whose paths you cross just once, yet you feel an instant connection with them—kindred spirits who will remain a part of your life forever.
I felt this when I met Jewel and her family over two decades ago at the church where my husband and I had begun attending. We were a newly married couple, and I remember the kindness that Jewel, her daughter, Cathy, and her son-in-law, Jon, extended to us. Years later, they moved away and, unbeknownst to me, moved to the small town where my mother-in-law had recently moved and began attending her church. Walking into the sanctuary during a visit and seeing their smiling faces was a wonderful surprise.
Over the years, I have stayed in touch with Jewel through social media and have been consistently impressed by the artwork she creates and shares. As I have a budding artist at home, I knew I wanted to pick Jewel’s brain about her craft. I also wanted to learn what advice she would give those looking to develop their skills and what she has learned throughout her journey.
I thoroughly enjoyed this interview! It’s like sharing a warm cup of coffee with a dear friend—inviting, comfortable, and filled with heartfelt conversation that I know you will appreciate.
Jewel’s Painting
PPT: When did you first begin painting? Did you take classes or workshops, or were you self-taught?Â
I don’t remember when I first started painting. I have been drawing as far back as I can remember. I have no formal training. I remember sending in a sketch for a contest the newspaper was running. Of course, it was sponsored by a company trying to sell painting lessons. I pray before I begin to paint. It’s a gift God gave me, and I always seek His guidance before I start.
PPT: How often do you paint, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I try to paint something daily or weekly to keep up the practice. I love going into my “art room,” and right now, listening to Christmas music and just being with my canvas, pictures, all the art is really inspirational.
PPT: Who are your favorite artists, and how have they influenced your work?
My all-time favorite artist is Bob Ross! He was on GPTV for years. He passed away in 1981. I never missed his show, “The Joy of Painting.” I would record the series and paint what he had done on the show.
PPT: What skills have you developed through painting?
Some of the skills I learned from his show were how to form trees and mountains. He taught patience and concentration. Still working on the patience! I have learned so many things from his teaching.
PPT: What inspires your choice of subject matter and themes? Do you draw from personal experiences, observations of the world around you, or other sources of inspiration?
Like Bob Ross, I love all wildlife and old things, like old barns and farms. I am not good at painting animals, but I’m working on it. I love any scenes with snow. Although we don’t get much snow in my part of Georgia, it reminds me of the peaceful time of growing up. I miss my mom and dad. They were the best. I have always loved doodling the different characters I saw in books and newspapers. Bob Ross was my inspiration. I have always loved his style of painting.
I always wondered what it would be like to paint with him; of course, I never got that chance. However, when we lived in Chattanooga, where we met your family, we looked on the web to see if any of his licensed instructors were in the area. We found one not far from our home in Hixson!! I called and made an appointment, and on October 16, 2003, my dream came true!! For four hours, I was honored to stand side by side with my instructor and our easels and paint my chosen piece with her guidance.
PPT: Can you tell me about the piece you chose? What inspired you to paint this work? Is there a special meaning behind it?
I chose this particular painting because of the mountains and the calmness I felt when looking at the scene. I was excited about recreating one of Ross’s original paintings with his hand-picked and trained instructors. I hadn’t thought about the date. When I got home, I realized it was one day from my late husband’s birthday (the 17th). He always encouraged me to take my art higher.
PPT: If someone wants to start painting, what advice would you give them?
If someone wants to learn and emulate a certain painter’s work, I suggest they research their area and find an instructor with a similar painting style. This can be very valuable in learning the basic skills. Don’t put it off. You will not regret it. Always remember, you can love and try to follow another’s painting style, but don’t forget to always make it your creation. If God has given you a talent, He will guide you along the way.
Always remember, you can love and try to follow another’s painting style, but don’t forget to always make it your creation
