MEET JEN LEO Here at CPiF, our mission is to promote the contemporary arts in our city and the people who create them. This week we would like to introduce you to Jen Leo, the founder and organizer of the new Creative Meet-up series that will take …
Here at CPiF, our mission is to promote the contemporary arts in our city and the people who create them. This week we would like to introduce you to Jen Leo, the founder and organizer of the new Creative Meet-up series that will take place at the new CPiF space in Via dei Serragli each month.
Tell us about yourself and your artwork.
I'm a local artist and designer, originally from Toronto Canada, and living in Florence since 2018. My approach to creation has always stemmed from a place of expression, curiosity, and trying to inspire the senses through visual art where my work is defined by bold use of color & abstract form. My main practice is as a painter but also work in illustration, design & decor and I strive to be an active member of the creative community through events, teaching & discussions.
The Creative Meet-ups are more than a simple gathering of artists, they are structured and focused and you are excellent at asking the right questions to get us thinking about our work in different ways. Where did the idea for the Creative Meet-up come from?
I've always been interested in organizing art events, especially maybe unconventional ones, or filling a gap where I see potential. In this case, it was really about the longing for community and bringing those of us working in Florence closer together. The relationships we have with other artists can be of great value- they are our peers who can share ideas or offer feedback, and really understand each other on a deeper level.
Why do you think it's important to have meet-ups like this?
It's easy to become disconnected as artists, we often work alone and sometimes don't have colleagues or classmates to connect with - especially when you leave school or find yourself in a new place. So much energy can be created when we get together to discuss, connect, and simply enjoy the company among peers and I think that sense of connection can be fundamental. We have so many creative professionals living and working in Florence, both from Italy and around the world so this was an idea to bring us together in a face-to-face setting to nourish those relationships.
How does it work and who can join?
I will host a meeting each month, which will typically take place at the new CPIF space on Via Serragli, and anyone who thinks they might benefit from the group or have something to contribute is invited to join- so far we've had a mix of artists, writers, photographers and even organizers of cultural associations. When you come, you can expect to have a chance to share a bit about yourself, and what you're working on, or even ask questions about specific challenges you're facing. Maybe you have a work in progress and want to see what people think- It's very open in this sense. As a group, we can then share experiences, and offer some insights and recommendations as peers. We aim to achieve a constructive and open conversation within the group and for those who join regularly, it's a great chance to follow up and really strengthen those relationships.
I will always share the date/times in the Creative People In Florence social channels monthly, but if you're curious about upcoming dates you can always write and ask about what's happening.
Where else can people find you and your beautiful painting?
My website has everything about me and my work at www.jenleostudio.com, you can sign up for my newsletter, and I share everything regularly on my socials too. I invite anyone to reach out with a message or questions- my Instagram is @jenleo_artflo
Thank you Jen
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