Finding Beauty in Nature and Everyday Moments with Artist Jeannine Zambrano

Jeannine Zambrano is a realist painter from Monterrey, Mexico. In this interview, she shares insights into her journey as an artist and mother. She discusses how her early insecurities influenced her creative style and how nature and simple everyday objects inspired her art. Jeannine also opens up about her creative process, from capturing moments during her walks to meticulously layering oil paints. She talks about the significance behind her artwork, like her piece Queen Magnolia, which symbolizes resilience and personal connection. Her work encourages viewers to find beauty in life’s small, often overlooked moments.

Artist Jeannine Zambrano has been featured in the Arts to Hearts Project’s book Lines And Curves and is recognized by the Women in Arts Network as a portfolio partner. Women in Arts Network is a proud portfolio partner of the Arts to Hearts Project’s books and magazines.

Jeannine Zambrano is a realist painter based in Monterrey, Mexico. Growing up in a city surrounded by mountains, she developed an early passion for art, which led her to major in Graphic Design at Universidad de Monterrey. She has remained dedicated to her craft throughout her journey, earning recognition as a finalist in International Artist magazine. Jeannine’s work appears in numerous collective exhibitions, including local and international shows, and she held her first solo exhibition, Recuerdos, Aromas y Reflejos. After years spent raising her four children, she now focuses full-time on her painting career, continuing to explore the nuances of nature and everyday life through her art.

1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background?

I am the second of five children and grew up struggling with insecurities. Surrounded by my beautiful, handsome siblings, I never felt like I measured up. My need for approval led me to strive for perfection in everything I did. I believe this drew me to painting hyper-realistically—constantly seeking to achieve the highest level of detail. Art has always been my passion, and although I wanted to study it formally, I wasn’t allowed to. Instead, I pursued a degree in Graphic Design, which was the closest I could get to my dream. Despite this, I never stopped improving my artistic skills, taking lessons from different teachers. Starting a family was my biggest dream, and I devoted many years to raising my wonderful children—a time I will always treasure. Now that they are more independent, I can dedicate myself to my art full-time. I’m blessed with a supportive husband and a loving family, which allows me the freedom to explore my creativity. Looking back, I realize that everything happens for a reason, and I’m truly grateful for the life I have today.

I find inspiration in the intricate details that often go unnoticed—the subtle interplay of light across a surface or the delicate elegance of a single flower.

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2. What is your creative process like from start to finish?

I find immense inspiration during walks in parks and nature, always with music playing as I immerse myself in the beauty around me. A simple flower can captivate my attention as I stop to admire every detail. I carry my phone to capture these moments, storing them for future paintings. When choosing everyday objects as subjects, I focus on those that evoke a shared sense of joy or nostalgia. I honour these objects by highlighting their beauty and significance. After photographing my subjects, I carefully select the image that best captures the play of light and shadow. I paint on half-grit imprimatur canvas, which I prepare with egg tempera mixed with pigment, creating a rich base for my drawing. My process begins with tracing the subject as accurately as possible before laying down the first layer of oil paint, where I capture the essential details. Once dry, I add a second layer to enhance the colors, followed by thin glazes to deepen the shadows. Finally, I apply radiant white to the brightest highlights, sealing the piece with my signature. After a three-month curing period, I varnish the painting, bringing the colors to life. The satisfaction of completing a piece, especially one that takes months, is unparalleled.

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

Two art pieces hold special meaning for me, but none more so than *Queen Magnolia*. I painted it in 2021, when the world was still paused due to the pandemic. While my children struggled with the loss of social life, feeling like time was slipping away, I saw it differently. The pause was a gift, a chance to focus on what truly mattered. In *Queen Magnolia*, the crystal vase symbolizes our home, and the magnolia flower represents me, isolated yet resilient. The magnolia, known for its resilience, blooms beautifully even in tough conditions, much like we did during that time. I worked on the piece in my parents’ attic, as it was too large for my home. Over the year it took to complete, my father often visited me upstairs, and we would have long conversations. I didn’t realize it then, but that year was a gift—precious time spent with him before he passed two years later. Every time I see *Queen Magnolia*, I am reminded of those moments, and I feel grateful for the time we shared in that attic, side by side.

4. How do you handle creative blocks or periods of low inspiration?

We all go through times when life feels overwhelming—when work is challenging, creativity feels out of reach, and your mind never seems to quiet down, weighed down by life’s struggles. In those moments, I turn to nature. I step outside, put on music, and remind myself to focus on the simple joys: waking up, breathing, and seeing the blue sky. I find the most gratitude in those small, often overlooked moments. The best things in life are free, like the sound of laughter or the beauty of nature. Practising gratitude helps me tap into my creativity. When I embrace life’s simple wonders, I’m inspired to capture and share that sense of awe, inviting others to see the beauty in life’s quiet details.

I hope to create art that resonates with viewers, encouraging them to slow down, reflect, and discover the beauty within their own surroundings.

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5. What do you hope people take away from experiencing your art?

Peace. My goal is to capture people’s attention by inviting them to pause and indeed observe the intricate details and vibrant colors that life offers. Through my art, I aim to preserve moments of joy and gratitude, reminding us of the beauty in the everyday. By focusing on simple, familiar objects, I transform them into meaningful subjects, showing how even the ordinary can hold profound significance. I want my work to inspire a deeper appreciation for life’s small wonders and the moments that bring us happiness.

Jeannine Zambrano’s story is one of resilience, passion, and the power of creativity. Her ability to find beauty in the smallest moments and translate them onto canvas invites us all to pause and appreciate the world. To learn more about Jeannine, visit the links below.

You can explore Jeannine’s journey and the stories of other artists by purchasing our Creative Process Book here: