Jessica Patterson
We are thrilled to present Jessica Patterson, also known as “JessTimeless,” as one of the featured artists in the Community Art Collection housed at the Baird & Warner Berwyn Office. Jessica's multifaceted practice encompasses studio painting, public art, community collaborations, and craft. She also teaches painting classes for all ages and accepts commissions with the option to customize objects and clothing.
Some of her recent partnerships and collaborations include custom-designed stickers distributed by You are Beautiful, a custom-painted fiberglass heart for The LUV Institute to amplify their organization's values and bring awareness to community concerns against violence. She is a contributing artist to the Englewood Arts Collective storefront, which feature an excellent roster of artists from the neighborhood. She partnered with us in 2020 for the BPAI Black Lives Matter mural installed at Berwyn City Hall.
“I aim to paint images of black and brown women; I take my own emotions and combine them with the neverending versatility of our everyday beauty.”
The artwork Jessica originally included in the Community Art Collection was a set of two paintings depicting beautiful black women with warm, expressive brushwork using yellow, red, and green hues. We are excited to report that a new collector purchased them, and since then, Jessica has painted a new set of companion pieces in our art catalog.
In honor of Black History Month, BPAI & Baird & Warner invite you to our next workshop led by Jessica Patterson! On February 18th, she will guide guests in an inspiring workshop emphasizing expression art. Click to learn more & register for ‘Drippin’ with a chance of healin.’
Artist Q&A
A conversation between Michelle Ruiz and Jessica Patterson
Michelle Ruiz: Tell us a little about your background and what led you to develop your art practice.
Jessica Patterson: I’ve been drawing since I was a toddler; however, I circled back to art while in college as it provided an outlet for relaxation. During that time, I experimented with acrylic and found myself creating hand-painted pieces on wood for fraternities & sororities for fun. I soon started charging for that work and continued to practice and expand my skill set. I spent more time developing my practice by taking in more commissions and hosting paint parties. In 2021, I registered for an LLC, and my art practice has evolved to teaching art classes at the YMCA, Dirksen Middle school, and Children's Home Center. My goal is to turn this passion into a full-time business!
MR: You have a multifaceted practice that includes craft, public art, community, and studio work. At present, what areas are you most excited about?
JP: There are three areas I am interested in expanding further. I would like to produce more painting parties across the US, take on more mural projects at any scale, and gain gallery representation.
MR: What overarching messages do you convey in your artwork?
JP: I want to challenge the thought of ‘nothing lasts forever’ because my paintings are meant to be everlasting, and that idea plays into my artist name, JessTimeless, and my Drip technique. Most of my work centers on black female beauty, the expression of everyday emotions, and expressive color play. I like employing a range of colors that ties into the feeling I am trying to convey in the artwork.
MR: I recently saw an MLK project you were part of; can you tell us more about it?
JP: Yes, I was selected to serve as a lead artist for the MLK Day of Service mural project at Donoghue Charter School. It was organized by Organic Oneness, along with other sponsors. My mural team consisted of volunteers from the Chicago south side community, students from the University of Chicago & LinkedIn employees. We all contributed to a colorful mural that depicted community, unity, and Dr. Martin Luther King. The final piece will be displayed at the Donoghue Charter School gymnasium in the Bronzeville neighborhood. I was also recently featured on the Chicago Tribune Newspaper's front page for this project!
Image Credit: Nancy M Wong
MR: Are there any mentors or favorite artists that have inspired your work?
JP: Yes, a few come to mind: Andy Warhol for his eye for color, Kerry James Marshall for his approach to sharing the African American story, and Frida Kahlo because of the intensity of emotion in her work.
MR: What is the best way for people to learn more about your work, and how can they purchase it?
JP: Directly through me or any of my social media platforms and Linktree.
Jessica is a self-taught painter with a bachelor's in Business Management from Illinois State University and resides in River Forest. You can follow her on IG and email her directly with any inquiries.
Jessica Patterson
Email: Jesstimeless22@gmail.com
Instagram: @_jesstimeless
Click here for the catalog to view the Community Art Collection currently on display at Baird & Warner.