No Holding Back

Acrylic and oil pastel, 36 in x 48 in x 1.6 in, 2022

As artists, we sometimes find ourselves stuck in the messy middle of a work in progress afraid to make the next mark for fear of making a mistake. This piece is a reflection of trusting ones instincts as an artist and not holding back.

Jen Monteleone is an abstract intuitive expressionist who draws from her inner dialogue to create vibrant works that explore self-awareness, transformation, and rebirth. Her practice is rooted in processing identity and themes of reconnection and self-worth, particularly through her perspective as an adoptee. 

Through multiple layers of color, texture, and gestural marks onto the canvas, Jen evolves alongside the work discovering new techniques and color combinations that spark curiosity. She hopes viewers stop, breathe, and linger awhile.

Jen retired from a 30-year career in nonprofit leadership and leaned into her authenticity as an artist three years ago. She began painting during the pandemic as a way to find balance and healing. After growing a collection of over 80 completed canvases, Jen held her first solo pop-up gallery in June 2024. Since then, her work has been shown at Art Walk Edmonds - Coldwell Banker Bain, Cafe Louvre, Frances Anderson Center Gallery, Bequest Coffee, and Moonrise Studios. She splits her time between studios in Seattle and Ventura, California.