Jessica Dawn on Finding Beauty in Life’s Small Wonders Through Digital Art

Meet Jessica Dawn, an artist who has turned life’s everyday moments into colorful, meaningful works of art. In this interview, she shares her journey from a love of photography to creating vibrant digital pieces that celebrate gratitude, beauty, and connection. Her art reflects her belief in finding strength and joy in the small things that often go unnoticed.

She talks about her challenges moving from a bustling city to the quiet countryside and how she found new inspiration online. Jessica also opens up about her excitement seeing her work displayed in big cities like New York and London, touching the lives of strangers. Through her blog and social media, she connects with people worldwide, using her art and writing to share her thoughts, emotions, and lessons.

Situated amidst the rolling hills and arid plains of rural New South Wales, my artistic path has been one of creative exploration and perseverance. My name is Jessica Dawn, and my passion for art transcends my own expectational limits. Holding a Bachelor of Fine Art from the National Art School in Darlinghurst, Australia, I had established a solid base in photography and life drawing. As I reflect on my path, it’s fascinating to see how my artistic journey has evolved. Majoring in photography, I honed my skills and received high distinctions in life drawing, which instilled in me a deep appreciation for the human form, as well as training my eye to look at subjects figuratively.

Techniques learned during my education have significantly shaped my approach to both analogue and digital mediums. In 2022, I ventured into the world of digital art. I often incorporate life drawing principles into my digital artwork, allowing me to maintain the aesthetic depth of traditional art. This transition was not just about changing mediums; it required a shift in my creative mindset. I dedicated countless hours to learning new tools like Procreate, learning how to blend traditional techniques with new possibilities. This transformation sparked both excitement and fear, but it ultimately pushed me to innovate in ways I hadn’t imagined.

1. How would you describe your art style and what inspired you to become an artist?

I believe Art has always been a powerful way to express our identities. It allows us to tell stories and connect with one another deeply. My work reflects my journey and invites others to find strength and beauty in the everyday moments we often overlook. Photography was my first love. My initial explorations showed me that a single photograph could freeze a moment, tell a story, and evoke feelings through freezing shades of light and colour. This realization motivated my transition from photography to crafting my own vibrant digital artworks. I now take those captured moments and recreate them by drawing them in digital format. Each piece is a homage to these small experiences which remind us that beauty is present if we choose to look closely. My art gently nudges viewers to embrace vulnerability while finding strength in the small things life offers.

Art has always been a powerful way to express our identities. It allows us to tell stories and connect with one another deeply.

Jessica Dawn

2. Can you tell us about a particular piece of art that holds special meaning for you?

“Never too old to be on the cover of Vogue” is a my homage to ageless beauty, inclusivity, and complete acceptance for women of all ages and bodies. This piece draws inspiration from the groundbreaking April issue of Vogue Philippines, which boldly featured the distinguished 106-year-old artist and indigenous tattooist Apo Whang-Od on its cover, making history and challenging conventional notions of age and beauty. This work was part of my series that opposed unrealistic societal standards, where these ethereal muses exuded confidence, grace, and a profound sense of authenticity. By honoring true beauty in all its forms, we pave the way for a more inclusive and empowering beauty industry that uplifts and inspires women worldwide.

3. Can you describe a memorable experience or project that significantly impacted your career?

This year, I’ve pushed my limits and had several of my works displayed in major public showcases located in cultural centers like New York, London, and Las Vegas. I’m thrilled that these exhibitions provide viewers with an unexpected experience, enabling them to interact with the art in a serendipitous way. I cherish the thought that artistic creations can make a lasting impression on someone’s day, even through a chance encounter. The possibility that a passerby might have their spirits lifted or their perspectives subtly altered by seeing my art is an exciting prospect. It brings me immense satisfaction to know that a small part of my artistic vision was being appreciated in such internationally renowned locations.

4. What challenges have you faced as an artist, and how did you overcome them?

Moving to the countryside after years of urban living, where cultural and artistic experiences were readily accessible, was my greatest challenge. My art practice was quite limited for a significant period. However, I eventually discovered that inspiration can be found everywhere. With the help of the internet, I learned a lot about launching an online business as an independent artist and realized the many opportunities available today. As I transitioned to digital art, I stayed true to my original themes, crafting pieces that convey meaning and invoke emotions of finding the beauty within and around you.

My initial explorations showed me that a single photograph could freeze a moment, tell a story, and evoke feelings through freezing shades of light and colour.

Jessica Dawn

5. What has been the most rewarding aspect of your art journey?

Despite living in a rural area, I have maintained a deep connection to the global art community. Social media platforms, like Instagram, and blogging on my website, have been essential for sharing my artistic journey. I look at this as a journal, and it has become an invaluable tool for self-reflection and personal growth. Through the act of writing, I have been able to delve deeper into my thoughts and feelings, allowing me to explore the intricacies of my identity and what truly matters to me. I strive to provide content that is not only engaging but also impactful, I genuinely hope that my followers and those who read my blog can take something valuable away from my writing.

Jessica Dawn’s journey shows us how art can bring joy and meaning to life. Through her creative process and positive outlook, she reminds us to find beauty in the little things around us. Her story is a wonderful example of how challenges can lead to growth and how art can touch hearts across the globe. To learn more about Jessica, visit the links below.