Re-imagined Sacramento: An Interview with Artist Jennifer Peart

Imagine Sacramento’s iconic landmarks – the Tower Bridge bathed in sunset hues, the mid-century modernism of the Sacramento Zoo, the stoic presence of the water tower – now enveloped in even more lush greenery, their structures interwoven with nature. Picture these scenes as vibrant illustrations in a retro sci-fi novel, pulsing with an otherworldly energy. This is the world artist Jennifer Peart creates, blending her passions for nature, architecture, and science fiction into captivating landscape paintings. CapRadio’s Chris Nichols spoke with Peart to delve deeper into her artistic journey.

Interview Highlights

Chris Nichols: You call Sacramento home now, but your childhood unfolded outside the city. How did your upbringing influence your work?

Jennifer Peart:

Growing up in Pleasant Valley, a small town nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, instilled in me a profound connection with nature. My childhood was an idyllic tapestry woven from sprawling wild spaces, rivers, lakes, and endless opportunities for exploration. My parents, avid nature enthusiasts, ensured we spent our days hiking, fishing, canoeing, and camping. These experiences weren’t just leisure activities; they were the bedrock of my creativity. Some of my earliest memories involve my brother and I, armed with campfire charcoal, transforming a granite slab into our canvas or crafting mud pies under the open sky. This deep-rooted connection with nature continues to inform and inspire my work.

Chris Nichols: You identify as a contemporary landscape painter. What does that mean to you, and how did your style evolve?

Jennifer Peart:

I embrace the rich history of landscape painting, acknowledging the profound relationship between artist and nature. However, I strive to push the boundaries of traditional landscape art. My work, which I call “Visionary Landscapes,” envisions a brighter future for our planet. Drawing inspiration from visionary science fiction, I explore themes of ecological healing and harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. My paintings depict recognizable landscapes and architectural elements, but with a twist. I might enhance the existing greenery, envisioning a future where Sacramento truly lives up to its “City of Trees” moniker. I’m fascinated by the potential of native plants and trees to revitalize our riverfronts and parks, creating vibrant, biodiverse ecosystems. My paintings become a canvas for these hopeful futures.

Chris Nichols: Integrating science fiction into landscape painting seems like a unique challenge. How do you achieve this in your work?

Jennifer Peart:

I’m drawn to the visual language of pulp science fiction, particularly the vibrant, imaginative cover art found on vintage sci-fi paperbacks. It’s a world of retro-futuristic technology, alien landscapes, and a sense of boundless possibility.

In my work, I reimagine iconic Sacramento landmarks like the Tower Bridge and the Sacramento Zoo entrance. Inspired by the work of local seed farms like Hedgerow Farms, I envision these structures enveloped by lush native flora, the nearby rivers teeming with life. I play with scale and perspective, perhaps featuring a six-foot salmon leaping from the water – a playful nod to the fantastical elements of sci-fi. It’s about capturing the essence of these familiar places while infusing them with a sense of ecological abundance and utopian possibility.

Chris Nichols: When did you decide to pursue art professionally?

Jennifer Peart:

Despite a supportive upbringing and encouragement to pursue art, I initially hesitated to make it my career. I earned my art degree from Mills College, after studying at Sacramento community colleges with some truly exceptional teachers. However, aware of the challenges artists face, I chose the path of an educator, teaching in various Northern California public schools, including Sac City Unified and Waldorf schools. While teaching was fulfilling, the urge to create never left me. Eventually, I decided to focus on my art full-time, channeling my passion for a brighter future into my paintings.

Chris Nichols: What advice would you give aspiring artists hoping to turn their passion into a profession?

Jennifer Peart:

My experience has shown me the power of community and mentorship within the art world. Many established artists are incredibly generous with their time and knowledge. Don’t be afraid to reach out for advice, even if it means cold-messaging someone on social media. I’ve found artists like Jaque Price, Uli Smith, Jaya King, and Michelle Dahl to be incredibly supportive, offering invaluable guidance and opening doors for emerging artists. Remember, we’re all in this together, and sharing resources and knowledge only strengthens the artistic community.

Finding Inspiration in Unexpected Places

Chris Nichols: Your art seems to blur the lines between reality and imagination. Where do you find inspiration for these visionary landscapes?

Jennifer Peart:

Inspiration is everywhere in Sacramento! Sometimes it’s a specific location, like the Sutter’s Fort gardens, where you can practically feel the history whispering through the leaves. Other times, it’s the play of light on the Sacramento River as kayakers glide by, or the vibrant murals that breathe life into our urban spaces.

I’m also an avid reader, and books often spark my imagination. Recently, I was captivated by the way N.K. Jemisin weaves social commentary into her fantastical narratives. Her ability to blend the real with the surreal resonates with my own approach to art.

And of course, I find endless inspiration in nature itself. Whether I’m hiking the trails at Cronan Ranch or simply observing the changing seasons in my own backyard, nature is my constant muse. It’s a reminder that even amidst the concrete and chaos of city life, beauty and wonder can thrive.

The Power of Art to Inspire Change

Chris Nichols: Your work goes beyond simply depicting nature; it actively advocates for its preservation. How do you hope your art will impact viewers?

Jennifer Peart:

I believe art has a unique power to engage people emotionally and intellectually. It can make abstract concepts like climate change feel tangible and personal. By presenting viewers with these hopeful, verdant visions of Sacramento, I want to spark their imagination and inspire them to think differently about our relationship with the environment.

My paintings are not meant to be utopian fantasies. They’re meant to be starting points for conversations about how we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for all. If my art can plant a seed of hope, spark a dialogue, or inspire someone to take action, however small, then I’ve achieved my goal.

Bridging the Gap Between Art and Community

Chris Nichols: You’re actively involved in Sacramento’s art scene. Tell us about your work with local organizations and how it enriches your artistic practice.

Jennifer Peart:

Being part of the Sacramento art community has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve had the opportunity to connect with fellow artists, learn from their experiences, and collaborate on projects that benefit the wider community. I’m a member of the Artists Collaborative Gallery in Sacramento’s Midtown, a space that allows me to showcase my work and engage with art enthusiasts.

I’m also passionate about art education and its ability to empower individuals. I’ve volunteered with organizations like Arts & Business Council of Sacramento, leading workshops and sharing my love of art with people of all ages. These experiences remind me that art is not just about creating beautiful objects; it’s about fostering connection, building community, and inspiring positive change.