Meet Jenna Annunziato | Contemporary artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jenna Annunziato and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jenna, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
People outside of the creative industry are not aware of the level of work that gets put into a completed piece of art. When I make a painting it’s a physical accumulation of all the successes and failures I’ve had, years of practice and studying, just like any other profession. People chalk it up to talent, while that is a compliment rooted in good intention, it assumes the work comes easy. I’m no where near where I want to be as an artist yet and that’s half the fun.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Getting where I am today was not an easy journey, and I don’t imagine it is for anyone. There were many decisions I made that time after time led me to devoting all my time to growing as an artist. I consider myself successful even if I don’t show in galleries very often and maybe only sell a few paintings a year. To me, it’s about getting up everyday and challenging myself. A lot of my work grapples with themes of isolation, finding beauty in the discomforting, taking an object out of it’s context and exposing it’s characteristics. I strive to create strong opposing reactions, depending upon the viewers personal experience.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m an outdoorsy kid, I’d take them to the mountains. When I first visited Colorado, I thought the road down clear creek canyon was the most incredible thing I’ve ever seen. There’s so many good spots, Red Rocks is always fun for people out of town. I’d take them down the art walk in Rino, that alley way has incredible street art for a few blocks.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people who joined me on my journey in some way. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for the friends and family who helped me through hard times, and inspired me through the good days. I’d like to dedicate my shout out to all the local artists, curators, and creatives that put themselves out there everyday to do what they love. Bell Projects is a sweet little gallery spot where I had my first solo show earlier in 2021. Frank Boyer has been a mentor to me since I graduated school in 2019. My job over at Shipist is a great small business that allows me the time I need to focus on my art.

Website: https://www.nunzstudio.com/

Instagram: nunzstudio