Artist Bio
Jenny Shaw is a distinguished Los Angeles-based artist originally from Taipei, Taiwan. Over the past four decades, she has immersed herself in the vibrant culture and diverse communities of California. The state's mild weather and multicultural environment have infused her work with positivity, cheerfulness, and playfulness which are consistently evident in her colorful paintings.
Jenny's artistic journey began at a young age when she started experimenting with watercolors and traditional Chinese inks. Her early passion for art led her to pursue a formal education in Western art at Chaffey College after relocating to California in 1983. Jenny's artistic prowess was first publicly recognized in 2002 when she held her debut solo exhibition at the American Club International in Taipei.
In her artistic practice, Jenny primarily works with acrylics, watercolor, and gouache, employing a variety of tools to create intricate layers and textures on the canvas. Her process involves gradually reducing and eliminating these layers to uncover and preserve the “essence” of the painting, a technique that serves as a metaphor for memory. This method reflects her meticulous attention to detail and her quest to capture the core of her artistic vision.
Jenny's unique style is also shaped by her admiration for the color palettes and techniques of renowned artists such as Pierre Bonnard, Henri Matisse, Richard Diebenkorn, George Inness, Tom Thomson, and Wolf Kahn. By studying these masters, she has developed a distinctive voice characterized by warm, bright, and blissful colors. Her abstract and colorful paintings radiate joy and aim to uplift viewers, offering comfort and solace to those in need.
Beyond her dedication to painting, Jenny's life is enriched by her deep passions for literature, philosophy, music, dance, travel, and nature. She is an avid reader, often drawing inspiration from philosophical texts and classic literature, which adds depth and thoughtfulness to her work. Jenny also practices ballet and yoga, which not only keep her physically active but also influence the fluidity and grace evident in her paintings. Her commitment to dance, in particular, reflects a discipline and an appreciation for movement that translate into the dynamic compositions of her art.
Travel has played a significant role in Jenny’s life and artistic journey. She has traveled around the world, soaking in diverse cultures and landscapes, which has broadened her perspective and enriched her palette. Each destination, whether it's a bustling city or a serene natural landscape, leaves a unique imprint on her work.
Her connection to nature is profound, often serving as both a literal and figurative backdrop in her pieces. This bond with the natural world drives her to explore her own psychology and emotions, fostering a deep introspection that culminates in her unique non-objective, abstract, mixed-media paintings.
Jenny Shaw's art is a reflection of her surroundings and a testament to her life's journey. Her ability to translate complex emotions and experiences into vibrant, joyful works of art makes her a beloved figure in the art community. Through her colorful paintings, she continues to inspire and bring happiness to her audience, staying true to her belief in the transformative power of art.