Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Jones.
Hi Sarah, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m a portrait artist, illustrator, and publisher! I’ve been painting portraits since I was in high school. I went to the University of South Carolina, where I studied History and minored in Studio Art. After UofSC, I went to the Fashion Institute of Technology, where I studied Fashion Design with a specialization in fashion art.
I worked as a fashion designer in New York at several companies, including Tommy Hilfiger and American Eagle. Then, I moved to Atlanta for a job at Carter’s children’s wear.
After a couple of years at Carter’s, I decided to take some time off and paint portraits…and I’ve been doing that ever since!
I started a local magazine here in Sumter, SC in 2017 and have been editor, creative director, illustrator, and publisher for the past five years. I work with a photographer, a food editor, a copy editor, and an intern. It’s a lot of work, but it’s also fun!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
With portrait painting, I’m always trying to make myself better – to see and try new things. I try to talk to other artists whenever I can about their practice and their business.
The magazine has had a huge learning curve. I feel like I learn a lot with every issue. I’m not a salesperson, so ad sales have been the biggest struggle by far.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As an artist, I specialize in portraiture. I mostly paint in watercolor or draw with graphite. Occasionally, I’ll do commission in acrylic. I like to paint faces and hair. I often get carried away painting fabric.
Can you talk to us a bit about the role of luck?
I think I’m lucky to have really supportive parents. They were supportive when I said I wanted to move to New York, and they were supportive when I came back to South Carolina. I couldn’t have done any of this without their help.
Contact Info:
- Email: sarahjjones.portraits@gmail.com
- Website: www.sarahjjonesart.com
- Instagram: @jonzee85
Image Credits
Mia Lee
