Hi, I'm Jess aka Navy Sloth. I'm a Cardiff based artist who creates vibrant abstracts and wildflower oil paintings.
I'm a mum of two beautiful little girls who are my world. They absolutely love watching me paint, and think it's funny when I'm at a craft fair apparently playing shop!
I've a degree in illustration which led to the introduction of many abstract artists who broadened my perspective of contemporary art. I also have a degree in environmental management and a masters in environmental design of buildings, both of which taught me the importance of reducing our carbon footprint. Painting is my passion, being creative runs deep within my soul. My girls are my life, my happiness, my everything. I won't always be around to protect them, but my aim is to do my bit in protecting the world we live in, where their future lies.
I believe one way we could reduce our carbon footprint is to choose our purchases more wisely. People connect to paintings on a personal level making them the perfect gift for loved ones or a special treat to transform their living space. Buying an original painting is an easy way to do our bit, selecting pieces designed to last instead of mass produced items that have less sentimental value, get thrown away and end up in landfill.
I'm also keen to rent my art to businesses as I believe many work places would benefit from having art on their walls. Not only to enhance the decor, make a statement for customers and clients, but also to improve mental health and wellbeing. Renting original paintings not only provides you with quality artwork to appreciate, but also allows you to update your walls regularly whilst reducing your carbon footprint in the process. It’s a win win situation!
My dream has always been to be a full time artist and have my own art gallery. Somewhere to create, sell and help others do the same. A dream that's somehow been put to one side so many times, usually from the pressure to bring in a steady income, trying to get on the property ladder, starting a family and putting their needs before anything else.
I'm constantly telling my girls they can do and be anything they want in life, and would love nothing more than to lead by example.
Finally my vision would be to not only sell my own paintings and crafts, but to provide a platform for other artists to become known and sell their art too. It's hard for artists to get a lucky break and find galleries willing to give them a chance. I'm hoping to help as many artists as possible experience gallery life and provide that chance.
The funding would go towards renting a small commercial property and all the bills/fees associated with starting and running a small gallery.