Jessie Shrieves is an artist who has built her career on capturing the creative paintings. Her journey into the art world began with formal training at Parsons School of Design, where she developed her foundational skills. The rigorous curriculum at Parsons exposed her to a variety of techniques and artistic styles, sparking a curiosity that would carry her through the rest of her career.
Shrieves didn’t stop with her degree. She sought out anatomy drawing classes in New York City, immersing herself in the study of the human form. This exploration brought her to The Art Students League, a place known for its collaborative and inspiring environment. Here, she connected with accomplished mentors like Joe Steffinelli and Anthony Tony, whose guidance helped refine her style. The League gave her the freedom to experiment with different mediums, pushing her to find her artistic voice.
Her relationship with Joe Steffinelli went beyond the traditional student-mentor dynamic. Before Parsons was officially part of The New School, Shrieves attended portrait classes led by Steffinelli and even served as one of his portrait painting models. This hands-on experience gave her a deeper understanding of form and composition, skills she later incorporated into her own work. It also gave her a personal connection to the art of portraiture, which she carries into her flower paintings today.
Beyond formal institutions, Shrieves spent time taking private sketching classes in SoHo. The art scene in the area during that time was electric. She recalls the bustling galleries, including Leo Castelli’s, which showcased works by prominent artists of the day. Immersing herself in this vibrant community allowed her to witness the evolution of contemporary art firsthand. SoHo’s energy was contagious, and Shrieves fondly remembers the small, close-knit community of artists who made the neighborhood a hub for creativity. The connections she formed there were not only professional but deeply personal, with fellow artists who shared her passion for making art.
While Shrieves’ career has been shaped by her education and experiences in New York, her inspirations stretch back to earlier periods in art history. Monet’s work holds a special place in her heart. His ability to convey emotion and light resonates deeply with her approach to painting. Shrieves also finds endless inspiration in the Dutch masters she has admired at The Met. Their meticulous attention to detail and rich use of color are qualities she strives to bring to her still-life work.
Shrieves approaches her flower paintings with a sensitivity. There’s a clear thread connecting her studies in anatomy, portraiture, and her appreciation for Impressionist and Dutch painters. Each brushstroke in her work demonstrates a respect for the form and an understanding of how light and color interact.
Her journey has been more than a series of educational milestones—it’s been a life deeply entwined with the art community. From her days as a model for Steffinelli to her time sketching in SoHo, Shrieves has built a career informed by collaboration, observation, and passion. She often reflects on the warmth and generosity she encountered in her artistic circles. While she recognizes that the SoHo of today is vastly different from the one she experienced, the memories of that vibrant era continue to inspire her.
Jessie Shrieves isn’t just painting flowers; she’s preserving a sense of connection to the beauty and vitality of the natural world. Her still-life works are imbued with an emotional depth that stems from her varied artistic experiences. Whether through the texture of a petal or the play of shadow and light, her work invites viewers to pause and appreciate the quiet, enduring elegance of her subjects.
