Daily Inspiration: Meet Jeriann Dosemagen

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeriann Dosemagen. 

Hi Jeriann, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Born and raised in Southeastern Wisconsin, I am a former business executive who is now living my dream creating beautiful artwork. Throughout my childhood, I was extremely passionate about art and had early dreams of living my life as an artist. However, as life would have it, I ended up putting those dreams on hold to pursue a career in business. Despite thriving in numerous leadership positions, my inner desire to become an artist remained strong. As a result, I carefully planned an early exit strategy from Corporate America so I could get back to my original passion. Once retired, I relocated to Mesa, Arizona, and completed a comprehensive art program where I learned the painting techniques of the old masters. I’ve been creating and selling my artwork globally ever since. 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I was fortunate to find a gallery (On The Edge in Old Town Scottsdale) where I could show and sell my work as soon as I established a portfolio. It has turned out to be a great venue to interact with and gather feedback from other artists and collectors. 

One thing I must admit I struggle with is having the discipline to carve out consistent studio time. You would think with the pandemic that I would be taking advantage of the solitude and creating like crazy, but it’s been just the opposite for me. I think perhaps because during my corporate career I became accustomed to working under pressure with tight timelines (and enjoying that pace). I think I’ve subconsciously carried this philosophy over into my studio – where I find myself most inspired when inventory becomes low. When your process is time-consuming and your sales are sporadic, creating just-in-time can become a bit problematic. This, coupled with the recent loss of my dad in March and my mom in 2019, both of whom I cared for since my retirement, has me in a place where for the first time ever… I’ve decided to take a little time for myself to recharge and reset. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Inspired by nature, I focus on the unique application of color and lighting in my art, transporting collectors into a realm of beauty, tranquility, and contemplation. My paintings are intended to “draw people into a place where they can pause, take a deep breath, unwind and recharge”. Specializing primarily in oils, I also like to experiment with acrylics and a variety of other mixed media. In particular, I love the look and feel of thick, vivid, layered brushstrokes and dots (contemporary pointillism) which I apply to everything from landscapes to portraits. My detailed charcoal and graphite pieces are also very popular among collectors. 

Most often I start my underpaintings with a thin wash of acrylics; sometimes even spray paint. Then, as I add some of the more basic details, I go from dark to light and thin to thick. I always finish off each piece with rich oils to ensure the most striking depth and vibrance, adding the finest details where I think they’ll have the greatest impact. In addition to brushes, I often use palette knives, sponges, and just about anything else I can find that will leave the sort of mark I wish to achieve. 

I intentionally allow my process to vary based on the subject matter, my mood, and even the type of music I’m listening to that day. I think being open to different processes makes my work more interesting, yet still unique to my personal voice and style. I always try to choose subject matter that is soothing and will stimulate inner reflection. 

My tagline is… “Bold colors sprinkled to please the eye, calm the mind and nourish the soul.” 

We love surprises, fun facts, and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I like to set the bar high, and I work really hard to make my dreams a reality. Because being wired like this can sometimes lead to stress, I know that finding healthy ways to decompress is crucial. My art is meant to help people relax. 

I create art that takes you to a different place; one that’s tranquil and encourages contemplation. 

I carefully consider subject matter and I apply color in unique ways to achieve a peaceful mood that’s not only beautiful but also calming and thought-provoking. 

Working from my Arizona home studio that is open year-round, I feel that fresh air, natural light, and loud music are key essentials to inspire creativity. Aside from painting, I am an avid reader and I enjoy traveling to experience different cultures and cuisines. I also enjoy hiking, swimming, and kayaking, as well as spending time with friends and family, especially my grandbabies. 

Contact Info:

• Email: jeridosemagen@yahoo.com
• Website: jerianndosemagen.com
• Instagram: @jerianndosemagen.fineart
• Facebook: @jerianndosemagen.fineart