How and why did you start your career in art?

I started drawing as a child and have been privileged to engage in art making through my life. Until several years ago I specialized in traditional oil painting of figures and portraits done from observation. Lately I have pursued more personal visual statements; however, I still create commissioned portraits for private, corporate and institutional clients. My current work focuses on female experience. It’s inspired by the stories of women I am close to and is also shaped by art historical representations of women.

How did you discover your medium and why did you choose it?

I’m interested in the quick layering that is possible with acrylic paint and the variety of mediums the acrylic medium offers. Acrylic opens up my process to allow me to be more spontaneous and change directions quickly.

Can you talk about your creative process? How is your work born? How long you take? When do you know it’s over?

My process usually begins with a drawn line. I then construct my image through direct painting techniques using traditional and untraditional tools. I also incorporate fragments of painted paper, household materials, scraps of fabric and monotypes into my pieces. I build the image, adding and subtracting elements until it reaches a point where it speaks, but also remains a bit ambiguous. A painting usually takes from a couple of weeks to a month to complete.

Who are your favorite artists? Which ones are you inspired by?

I’m especially drawn to work by women figurative artists: Kiki Smith, Ann Gale, Nancy Spero, Njideka Akunyili Crosby and Tschabalala Self.

THE ARTIST

Name: Jeanne Ciravolo
Residence: USA
Occupation: Painter
Website: https://www.ciravolo.com/
Social: https://www.instagram.com/jeanneciravoloart/

FEATURED WORKS