Jenny Sharaf is a contemporary artist living and working in San Francisco. Her works are inspired by the glitz and glam of Hollywood – where she grew up – and are a celebration of artists from the past, as well as current fashion and art trends.
TGW caught up with Sharaf to chat about art, inspiration and the mythical concept of the creative process.
TGW: Do you remember the time in your life when you decided that you were going to be an artist?
JS: I always wanted to be an artist. My Aunt has a gallery in upstate New York and would take me around to do studio visits with her when I was very young. It made a big impression on me to see accomplished artists with huge studios. People were taking their “playing” very seriously. They made art look professional and like a real option for a career.
TGW: Do you do anything else to earn a living?
JS: I do consulting, curating and event production. Everything is art related. Usually, I have at least four projects or side projects running.
TGW: When are you at your most creative?
JS: I have no idea. I think this question romanticizes the artist process a bit.
“If I tell myself that I only have good ideas at night with certain circumstances, that would be dangerous.”
TGW: Some people believe that being happy can stifle creativity. What’s your experience?
JS: I paint consistently – so that includes the happy and sad times. My mood definitely affects the colour palettes, but you can’t let your emotions get in the way of your work.
TGW: Have you ever made a mistake with your work while people were watching? What did you do?
JS: Of course. Play it off.
TGW: Who/what inspires you to create?
JS: If I didn’t create, I’m not sure what I would do or who I would be. I’m inspired by it all.
“I paint consistently – so that includes the happy and sad times. My mood definitely affects the colour palettes.”
TGW: Name your biggest style icons
JS: Bardot, Cleopatra, Miley Cyrus
TGW: Who are your most famous fans?
JS: My most famous fans on instagram are Wayne Coyne (The Flaming Lips) and Swizz Beatz.
TGW: Elvis or The Beatles?
JS: Both. To choose would be impossible.
TGW: What’s next for you?
JS: I’m working on a mural on Market Street in San Francisco (between 7th and 8th) next to the Warfield. It should be done by the end of September. I’m also curating and producing a new outdoor art event in San Francisco called Art Night SF.
Get Social:
- Website
- Instagram & Twitter: @jennysharaf @gallerydaily
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