I recently had the opportunity to interview an amazing San Diego based artist, named Jasmine Banks. Last year Andre Power of Soulection introduced me to her and talked about how incredibly talented she is. When I opened Freshly Faded, I started out with a vision of offering something new to the community, and collaborating with cool, independent, visionaries. I wanted to help facilitate a renaissance so to speak, a gathering of individuals who have a common goal: adding something new, fresh, and helpful to the world. So without further ado: Jasmine Banks

FF: Who are you and what do you do?

I am a self-taught freelance artist born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and raised in San Diego, California. I’ve attended the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts and studied English Literary Theory and Criticism at The University of California, Davis. I currently reside in sunny San Diego where I create from home. I sell my art at local live art events and through my online Etsy shop. I create abstract art using various mediums including: aerosols, acrylics, oil based paint markers, and watercolors on wood, stretched canvas and paper. Each piece is created by hand without the use of stencils or tools, making each creation one of a kind. My influences are drawn from patterns in nature and melodies in music. I’ve displayed my art in collective art galleries, local restaurants and have participated in charity, music and live art events throughout San Diego. I am truly thankful for everyone's support and interest in my art. Thank you for appreciating my craft.

FF: What’s your favorite piece of work that you have created?

It’s so hard to choose just one. I’ve fallen in love with many of them while creating. If I had to choose it would be Lilac Union (Series-Part I & Part II). I created that piece as a wedding gift for my best friend and her husband. I am truly inspired by their love and union and this piece exudes that emotion.

Lilac Union (Series-Part I & Part II)

Spray Paint and Oil Based Sharpie

on Stretched Canvas

22x28 (Each Canvas)

(2014)

FF: What are you working on at the moment?

I recently began experimenting with watercolors. I love black fluid acrylic paint. It’s so sleek and clean. It’s combination with watercolors create a smooth and delicate effect. I am currently working on a watercolor series. I’ve released three 12 x 18 pieces on watercolor paper from the series so far. One of which has already sold. I am thankful for the reception of these pieces!

FF: What are your goals for the future?

I want to create art for the rest of my life. Art is innate for me, I couldn’t imagine my life without it in all forms. I would love to solely focus on my art and work from home. I want to curate my own solo art show within the next two years. I want to travel, explore and continue to meet lovely beings around this earth. I look forward to raising a family while continuously building and evolving within my craft.

FF: What are you doing when you’re not creating?

Outside from creating, I work full time. I spend time with my family and friends in San Diego and in the Bay Area. I love to visit local art, music and food events. It’s lovely to see my peers coming together to create. There is such an abundance of love and good energy at each event. I love to garden, cook vegan food, visit new local vegan restaurants, relax at the beach, listen to music, spend time with my cats, read, learn, and explore new places.

FF: What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I can sing. I’m unsure as to if I would sing live in public. I’ll have to work up the nerves for that! I love to write songs, poetry and fiction narratives. It’s been such a long time since I’ve focused on that part of my craft. I definitely look to dive back into writing soon.

FF: Do you have any favorite blogs you read?

If I’d have to pick, as a collective, it would be Tumblr. It’s raw, witty, unfiltered, and mixed with an abundance of emotions. A site where you can be yourself and express yourself. It is the epitome of free speech. I have a personal tumblr (animalcrown.tumblr.com) and one for my art (jsbanksart.tumblr.com).

FF: What else should we know about you and your work?

I am truly thankful for the response and and love that I have received with my craft. I appreciate everyone’s support of my dream. Each piece is created with love, light and positive energy, stimulated by touch, sight, sound and aroma. What I feel in that moment is what I create and it is displayed in my art. Not one creation is like the other. I am so grateful to be able to share my energy with the world.

FF: Do you have any tips or inspiring words for others?

Be yourself! Focus on your craft, find your niche and nurture it. It took me me some time to discover what I loved to do and what flowed naturally to me. The more you practice the more you learn, the more you grow. Tap into your imagination and creativity. Push your limits, and don’t be afraid to fall. We live in the digital age and what better platform than social media to share your art around the world. Make use of social media and be consistent. I’ve been able to connect with all walks of life through social networks. Be active and visit local art and music events. Take time for yourself. Eat good, sleep well and last but not least, stay positive!

Website: www.etsy.com/shop/jsbanksabstractart

Shop Blog: www.jsbanksart.tumblr.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/JSBanksAbstractArt

Instagram: instagram.com/_jsbanks_

Email: banks.jasmine.j@gmail.com

Jasmine Banks Artist + Creative