A Bit About Me

 

Jen Scheben and cat Chiana

My earliest memories are filled with the scratch of a pen on paper, turning the mundane into a canvas for my imagination. At 17, during a difficult battle with anorexia, I stumbled upon a powerful tool: "structured doodling." It was more than just a distraction; it was a lifeline, a way to channel the chaos in my mind into something tangible and beautiful. These drawings were never meant for an audience; they were a private dialogue with myself, a way to silence the voices of insecurity.

As I journeyed towards recovery, my artistic exploration deepened. I experimented with different mediums, pushing the boundaries of my "structured doodling" technique. The art community's response was encouraging, with art shows and kind words, but my art remained a personal pursuit.

Then, 10 years ago, my world shattered. My mother, my unwavering champion, passed away. The loss was profound, leaving me feeling directionless. In my grief, I found myself instinctively reaching for my pen. Drawing became a way to honor her memory, to translate the raw emotions into visual form. It was a silent conversation, a tribute only she and I could understand.

Art became my sanctuary, a deeply personal outlet for self-expression, especially as I navigated the challenges of addiction. For years, I wrestled with the idea of sharing my work, of revealing the vulnerability behind each piece. Now, I believe it's time. I hope my story encourages others to embrace their authenticity and find beauty in their unique perspectives.

When asked to describe my art, I say, "I abstract my thoughts and spill them onto paper, creating visual landscapes that others seem to connect with." It's my hope that these creations offer you a glimpse into my soul and inspire you to explore the depths of your own imagination.

With heartfelt sincerity,

Jen