From the time I was little, I remember making things. Specifically, I remember making new things from old things. In that sense, then, I have always been a maker. It was however, when I was studying Theology and the Arts at Regent College in Vancouver, British Columbia that I was able to say for the first time, “I am an artist.” It felt like I had come home. Julia Cameron’s workbook, The Artist’s Way, helped me gain confidence as I risked and wrote poetry, painted, penned calligraphy and wrote a short memoir. It was scary!
Since then I’ve explored collage, book-making and have continued to paint. I’m fascinated by color, texture, the juxtaposition of image and word to create new meanings and the creation of mystery in a painting.
As I take risks in my art, I continue to face my fears, but on the other side of fear is joy. My desire is to bring joy to others through my artwork as well.
I am also certified as a Spiritual Director through George Fox Seminary.
My favorite thing to do in my spare time is anything to do with art–make it, view it, and talk about it. I like to take bike rides and explore hidden places. I also have an uncanny knack for finding random objects and handwritten papers (which I’m sure is me returning to the joy from my childhood.) I live in Northeast Portland with my husband Michael, a marriage and family therapist.
Jennifer Jane Lichtenberg 