Today we’d like to introduce you to Jody Gerber.
Jody, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am passionate about art. A desire to create started when I was young and for a time it was pushed aside. I was busy raising my kids and juggling responsibilities in life. Since I took the route of starting a family, I was convinced that my years of completing a college education were over. I came across a quote that said, “Don’t let age deter you from anything.” It resonated with me and that is when I decided to jump back in and get my degree. I learned that life is about living; my age is irrelevant.
My desire to learn the fundamentals of art intensified which led me to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Dixie State University. It opened my mind to new ideas and pushed me to grow. This is when I discovered that art is where I find joy. As an undergrad I did a study abroad in Rome, Italy. This was a great experience to visit the country of my ancestors and it solidified my love of art. I am currently attending Laguna College of Art & Design with less than a year left to receive a Master of Fine Arts in Painting.
The things important to me are the relationships with my family, my relationship with God and finding my various purposes in life and fulfilling them. Even though art was part of me for a long time, I feel that I am just starting on this journey. Today I am setting up what I will be doing the rest of my life. That is exciting!
My inspiration for my art comes from the places I consider home: the Pacific Northwest, Southwest desert and California coast. It also comes from the people I know and the relationships I have developed. For me, painting is another language; it enables me to communicate visually what I am feeling inside. When I view the paintings by William Bouguereau and Rembrandt, it is as if the artwork speaks, waiting for me to understand. Art tells a story if you are willing to listen.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It was not a decision made lightly to leave my comfortable life in Southern Utah and move to California to attend art school without knowing what lies ahead. People probably thought I was crazy but I am experiencing something they will not. I feel a need to further my education and pursue a career in art.
One personal challenge I face is that of depression and anxiety. It started as I was a teenager. I can’t believe I suffered for so many years fighting through different emotions. It is now under better control with medication but still something I need to work through.
An essential part of my puzzle is an incredibly supportive husband who shares my vision. His encouragement is appreciated. We feel it is important to get out in nature to renew and de-stress. We enjoy cycling, hiking, motorcycling and chilling at the beach. Taking the time to do these things gives me a fresh start and new perspective.
Tell us about your business – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I am a representational artist mainly working in oil paints. My focus is on figurative realism. I do commissioned portraits while attending graduate school. I am working towards making a body of work that defines who I am as an artist and what I am trying to say. The primary intention of my thesis work is to show my deep desire to preserve the virtue of children and acknowledge their value in the world. My paintings are a reminder of the changes in life, allowing us to stop time and remember what was lost. I find myself still today wishing for the security I felt during childhood. My focus is on young girls and their experiences. Each painting I make allows me to climb into the girl’s world for a time. I am currently working on a series of paintings to support this thesis which I will present to galleries for representation of my work.
I strongly believe in the importance of saving the innocence of children. As I learn about the issues around the world with human trafficking, especially with children, it opens my eyes to the depth of the problem and how it cannot be ignored.
I plan to get more involved and encourage others to support companies such as Operation Underground Railroad and Saving Innocence. They are dedicated to saving children and giving them a new life. Whether or not we are in a position to directly save a child being mistreated, we can all be a positive influence and impact the lives of the children we know.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is defined by each individual. I know my definition changes as I grow and I look at it as a positive thing. Instead of thinking that I won’t achieve what I am after because I keep raising the bar, I think of it as an opportunity to improve. I think it is important to not limit myself.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Thanks to my strong determination and my inherited stubbornness, this gives me the ability to reach my goals. Diligently taking advantage of opportunities is essential. There is more to learn in a classroom than what the teacher presents. I feel that every person has something to teach me. People tell me that I have a propensity to see things from another person’s perspective. This is useful when working with others but it also helps me to improve my artwork and discover ways to portray something in a way I may not normally tend to.
Contact Info:
- Address: Aliso Viejo, CA
- Website: JodyGerberStudio.com https://www.jodygerberstudio.com/
- Email: jody@jodygerberstudio.com
- Instagram: @jody_gerber_studio https://www.instagram.com/jody_gerber_studio/
- Facebook: @Jody Gerber Studio https://www.facebook.com/jodygerberstudio/
Suggest a story: SDVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
