Jess Voas
Soft Glam, digital photography.
I’ve always artistically expressed myself and luckily was always supported in the endeavor. I wrote silly stories about trolls that I would save to floppy disks, created costumes of my favorite characters out of crayon drawings, and built entire stories about the objects around me. The materials didn’t matter, if I dreamt of it I would make it.
Always.
In my primary discipline, photography, I have a bachelors degree. I am also beginning my masters program at Lesley this Fall.
When I can, I love to attend local organized events and meet other artists. On my own, I’ve organized a group of photographers that gather once a month to discuss their work called the “Photo Lounge”.
Bathing, digital photography.
My primary medium is digital photography. I originally fell in love with the darkroom from an elective class I took. After learning techniques of a camera, I was inspired by the idea that I didn’t need a pen and paper to bring my ideas to life. Using the real world to create added a layer to my work that felt grounding.
My photographic process at the moment is very self-reflective. Lately I’ve noticed moments in my life that cause anxiety, and use those moments as a starting point to create a photograph. I also write. A lot.
As my work is very self-reflective, so I tend to use myself and my experiences in the majority of my work. There’s a freedom to working with just me and a camera that’s hard to shake- a type of meditation that has replaced the darkroom for the time being.
A Strangers Couch, digital photography.
My practice is very therapeutic, and when I was finally able to come to terms with what my work meant to me, all I’ve ever wanted is to help others find out what their practice means to them. Sure, I hope to someday have a solo show. I’d love for people to love my work. But really, if I can guide even a single person to help them learn to love and respect their own work, I’m a happy person.
So many! My primary inspiration comes from extremely talented individuals that use their understanding of being an artist to guide and uplift others- much like my previously stated personal goal. Some of my favorites are Aline Smithson, Cig Harvey, and Rana Young. They create impactful work while also never feeding into the idea that being an artist should be a lonely route. They’re incredible people as well as incredible artists.
Yes! The majority of art on our walls are made by local artists. My favorite thing to collect by other people is artists books, I have a photo book collection that won’t stop growing.
I was just selected in the Summer 2019 Curated Fridge show which I’m very excited for.
See More Jess!
Website: www.jessvoas.com
Instagram: @jessvoas