JESSIE KENNEDY STEINBERG
The Grounded Dreamer
The Mission: Connecting to Source
I believe we live in a universe of transcendent harmony, yet human existence remains restless and chaotic. In this dichotomy, I feel a soul-deep need to create art that encourages us to drop the mind and tap into the spiritual. My mission is to create work that serves as a spiritual guide—helping us navigate our deepest emotions and reconnect to Source.
The Catalyst: A Healing Journey
My practice crystallized through a daunting, years-long season of illness and remission. That experience shifted my focus toward the essential: the need for refuge and the power of being transfixed on what lies beyond the beauty of the natural world. There is something beyond realism that is timeless, luminous, and healing. And thus, I began to create work grounded in realism, yet bathed in mysticism—designing each piece as a meditative anchor to help me thrive.
The Foundation: Theater & The Human Condition
I have always been a student of the human condition, a fascination that led me to a BFA in Acting. Theater served as my first apprenticeship in this exploration; there, I spent years studying the architecture of the mind and the gravity of existence—an intrigue I now translate into my visual practice. Whether in the soft layers of oil or the grit of charcoal, I approach the subjects of my work as a profound character study. I give each figure the same rigor I would when building a role—delving into their subconscious, their desires, and their challenges to reveal the quiet motivations beneath the surface. My portraits feel deep because I am not just looking at a face; I am looking at the psychological weight of being.
The Practice: Finding the Balance
Based near Austin, Texas, I am inspired by the healing resonance of the natural world and how we relate to its vibrations. In the studio, I translate these observations into layered compositions and color palettes, thoughtfully evolving each piece as I explore the relationship between the subject and the ethereal unknown. I utilize the mystery of hard and soft edges to direct focus, highlighting specific narrative elements and inviting the viewer deeper into the work. My practice maintains enough realism to keep us anchored while leaving room for the soul to explore and find its place in the bigger picture.
If you see art on my available page that you are interested in, please contact me. I can explain more about the piece, its inspiration and story, as well as payment and shipping options. (I can also deliver if you are in the Austin area.) To keep up with the latest updates on my work and life, you can follow me on Facebook and Instagram.