Jael Hoffmann - Art As a Reflection of Life

Jael Hoffmann - Art as A Reflection of Life

 - Can you please share a little of your background? For example, where you are from and how your artwork ties into your culture or where you live. 

I live in the high desert of California, with view of the Sierra mountain range and vast expanses of desert floor. My artwork doesn't tie in directly with the environment, as my sculptures mostly represent inner states of being, but the raw natural setting of my habitat does cater to a comfort from which ideas spring. 

- Which situations or experiences have helped you evolve as an artist? For example; what makes you who you are? 

Great question. I don't think it's the experiences themselves that helped me evolve as an artist, but how I decided to go about dealing with them. Art is not separate from living, so living well has been the basis for an inner state that can receive ideas and figure out how to make them happen.

- Does your work carry a message? If it does not, then can you tell me why you make it?

Yes, most of my metal work is symbolic of inner states we either struggle with, or struggles overcome. Some is political in nature, depending on what external circumstances reverberate strongly. I use humor as a tool to ease access to self. My jewelry work is mostly playful and satisfies a yearning for aesthetic balance.

- Who are your biggest influences? Why?

I didn't know anything about sculpture work, when I started working in metal, so there are no individuals or art movements that influenced my work.

- Do you have a current project that you are working on?

Yes, I am re-imagining the biblical story of Eve. 

- What has been your biggest challenge as an artist when it comes to your work and/or career?

A big challenge for me is working under less than optimal conditions. My workshop is not temperature- controlled, so summers are very hot and winters very cold. I also have to pull-start a generator (as I live off-grid) to use large tools. 

- Do you actively seek out opportunities or do you just go with the flow? Why? How is that working out for you?

I have a sculpture garden off highway 395. That's my exposure. I don't actively seek to display my work anywhere else, as I'm too busy doing work. It suits me to live in a bubble.

- Do you find it difficult to price your work? Why?

Not at all, every piece screams its value at me. 

- Which pieces are you most proud of? Why?

My last piece 'Tzu Jan -constant change' has had a strong effect on others. It is describing the internal and external sameness in the face of constant change.

Tzu - Jan by Jael Hoffmann

- How do you feel after completing a project?

Relieved, as the sometimes very challenging process of giving birth, is over (temporarily, anyway).

- How has art changed or challenged your life?

I've learned (or am still learning) to step back, when things don't work out as planned, or desired. 

Art is enhancing my experience of being alive, as it keeps me engaged and on my toes.

You can find more information about Jael and her recent projects, jewelry, Sculpture Garden and more on her Website: Jael Hoffmann