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

Hi Jennifer, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Like many artists will tell you, I have been creating for as long as I can remember. Being an artist is a big part of my identity. I spent many years trying out other paths, but ultimately it just led me back to painting. There is also the fact that it was the one thing I excelled at in school. I was fortunate to have wonderful opportunities early on and art teachers in high school that gave me inspiration to live a creative life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

I create vibrant colorful abstract paintings with a maximalist approach to color. I want my paintings to uplift and bring joy to the individual. I love to see the reaction people have to them, nothing thrills me more than connecting with the viewer. My path to get here was a long one. I graduated art school in the early 90’s. Upon graduating I had no idea on how to make a living with art, or even how to build a steady painting practice . I spent many years working various jobs, and ultimately became a graphic designer. For a decade I worked in children’s animation and publishing– both as a designer and a manager. I found the work not very creatively fulfilling, so I started painting again at night and on weekends. After a decade working in publishing I had the opportunity to leave full-time work and go freelance. I found a painting studio and committed to a daily painting practice. That was 10 years ago now and it has been a real adventure since then. One of the biggest lessons I had to learn was not to compare my path with someone else’s. You have to think about what you want to do and start by putting one foot in front of the other. It took me many years to get where I am now, and there is so much more to do!


If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
When I have friends come to town I love to take them for epic walks through the city with multiple stops for coffee, lunch and afternoon cocktails.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Artists can only thrive with community. I have a wonderful community around me– fellow artists, gallerists, art lovers, and above all art collectors! I owe you all a debt of gratitude.

Website: www.banzaca.com

Instagram: @jennifer.banzaca

Image Credits
Photos by Amy Tam

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.