Do you mind introducing yourself to those reading?
Zipporah Joe'l, I'm a 28 year old painter and illustrator.
Where are you originally from?
Originally I'm from Rembert, SC. I moved to Columbia and stayed for the beginning of my 20s before settling down in Atlanta.
What got you interested in Art?
I always hate this question, there was no profound moment. My mother used to help cultivate my creativity when I was younger, building rockets out of boxes, paper making stuff like that and my dad painted these velvet paintings that hung in my grandmothers house that I used to stare at often. Maybe my interest was a result of boredom, there wasn't much to do in Rembert.
How long have you been creating?
Forever for fun, I've only been convincing people to pay me for it the last 6/7 years.
The subject matter for a lot of your work features naked women, is there a reason why?
Nudity can be representative of so much: vulnerability, innocence, power, desire, emptiness, etc. And women are big parts of my work because that's the only experience that I've had.
Can you describe your thought process when creating your art?
I have to let my thoughts consume me. Before I even put pencil to paper for an initial sketch I have to see it fully in my mind or I "can't" create. And most my ideas stem from things that aggravate me, personal faults or society as a whole. So basically a whole lot of beating myself up until I can work through those initial "aggravations."
How has your work evolved over the years?
It's way less cute. I'm creating from a more authentic place. I've been paying more attention to the quality of my work, more than the quantity of work.
How would you describe your style?
Hmmm, it's still evolving but I'd say it touches folk and pop art more often than not.
what's your favorite medium to use in your work?
I work with acrylic a lot but I've been experimenting with gouache lately. For my illustrations it's Copic and Microns all day.
Who were some of the artists that influenced your style when you decided you want to be an artist?
I'd say I've always been very fond of Mucha. I also was getting into antiques at the time so I'd often come across his prints and ad work.
Who are some of the artists that inspire you now?
Sorayama, Harukawa, Shepard Fairey (s/o South Carolina), Little Thunder, and a lot of those guys that died a long time ago...their names were always too long for me to remember.
What projects/shows are you working on?
Currently I'm getting ready for Forward Warrior and relaunching my website....and potentially planning a solo show for the beginning of next year.
Famous last words...
It ain't that deep.
