I am an abstract painter, and I work primarily in watercolors with mixed media elements. I’m inspired by the interplay of colors, shapes, and uneven lines, and I love the fluid, unpredictable nature of watercolor paints. I work very intuitively: I always have a starting point - a particular color combination or focal point - but then I just go wherever inspiration leads me.

I have always had creative interests and pursuits - I was an actress during my teens and 20s, and then a jewelry designer for a while, before arriving at my long-time career as an elementary school teacher. But it wasn’t until the spring of 2020 - when we were all in lock-down and I was stuck at home teaching remotely - that I picked up my first set of watercolor paints. What started as a pandemic hobby has become a passion, and an absolutely essential part of my life. Painting brings me peace, balance, and joy, and it has helped me maintain an even keel in our uncertain times. In July of 2022 I made the big decision to retire early from teaching so that I could devote more time to my art.

Fun fact: I have painted literally every single day since January 1, 2021! Over three years, and counting!

For more information, check out this interview I did with Etchr Studio’s podcast, Make More Art: Jocelyn Benford Interview