Meet Jess McManus | Visual Artist

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

Hi Jess, what inspires you?
I am inspired by the geometry that is present across the universe. I find beauty in how various patterns show themselves in micro and macrocosms – like how the orbital pattern of Venus creates the same shape as a 5 petaled flower! It makes me question how our reality is constructed, and upon investigation has lead to an inner feeling of interconnectedness with life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
It took me years to realize that my art is not created for the consumer, but is created for and by me. My hope is that the viewer will also come to enjoy my creations as much as I do, but it is not my goal. I have had to let go of the need for external validation in order for my art to progress. I now find a piece to be of more value to me based on the lessons and experiences that surrounded my life at the time of its creation. There is no “perfect” time to create, do not wait for your issues to be resolved before sitting down to make something. If you know art is what you want to pursue, then please do it! The world would be a happier place with your creations in it.

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 love to take visitors to Mount Blue Sky for sunset, the highest paved road in North America with beautiful views of the mountains. There have been times I have encountered mountain goats!
I recently discovered “Mac Nation” in Indian Hills – if you like Mac and Cheese, this spot is for you! There are lots of hiking trails nearby as well to enjoy.
Santa Fe First Friday to visit all of the local galleries.
Cervantes Ballroom for a concert – shoutout to Riverbeats Colorado and the Shift Thursday team.
Cafe Jordano in Lakewood is great for Italian Food
Blue Spruce Chocolates in Evergreen – please try the “not quite white chocolate” with passion fruit! It is out of this world.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am eternally grateful for my partner Alex. Alex has continued to inspire me artistically and individually. He motivates me to be more thoughtful in all areas of my life and encourages me to be authentically myself. He has shined light on parts of myself that I may not have met if it were not for him, and I am eternally grateful. I would also like to thank Keith Critchlow, as his book “The Hidden Geometry of Flowers” has completely changed my outlook on life and my creative practice as a whole.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jess_jammin?igsh=MWhwbjJ4bzBob3BodA==