Interview
Jessie Belle van Loon
Jessie Belle was born with a natural talent and passion for art, which was evident from a young age.
During the pandemic, Jessie Belle used the extra time to enroll in additional art courses at the Academy of Art University and CG Spectrum. She completed these courses while still in high school.
Her hard work paid off when she was granted early admission into university at the age of sixteen. She has almost completed her Bachelor of Creative Arts degree, specializing in animation & design.
In addition to painting, Jessie Belle has also illustrated children’s books and book covers. Her ultimate goal is to work within the film and television animation industry.
Jessie Belle has won several awards for her paintings and illustrations.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“My earliest memories are of creative mess, but my parents saw artistic potential and encouraged my endeavors from a young age. As I’ve grown, my love for different artistic mediums has continued to grow, from painting both watercolors and acrylics, sketching, concept art, and illustration.
I’ve always been drawn to cartoons, especially ones by Disney, Warner Brothers, and other similar animation studios. Along the way, I became obsessed with recreating characters from these cartoons in their traditional style, as well as inventing my own.
While taking university-level subjects during the COVID period, I began to develop my own unique artistic style. Over time, I’ve refined my craft and gained a deeper understanding of the art world. One of my biggest highlights was the opportunity to illustrate a children’s book at the age of 15. I also do freelance work when I’m not studying.
I’m optimistic that my young age will demonstrate to studios and galleries that I’m a highly motivated, enthusiastic, and ambitious artist. I’m grateful for my early creative experiences and for the support of my family. They helped me discover my passion for art, and I’m fortunate to be able to pursue this passion every day.”
What inspires you?
“As an artist, I find inspiration in everything around me, especially in nature. I usually have several projects in progress, keeping an eye out for new ideas to incorporate into my work. For example, when I look at a rose, I envision how I could transform it into an outfit for one of my characters.
I enjoy walks along the beach, observing the rhythmic movement of the waves and the way the colors change depending on the light. It’s the inspiration for a series of paintings that capture the beauty and movement of the ocean.
Ultimately, I find that inspiration can come from anywhere and everywhere, and I’m always on the lookout for new ideas to fuel my creativity.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
"As a mixed medium artist, I pursue a range of themes in my work, but I’m particularly drawn to the natural world. Through my art, I aim to capture the beauty and complexity of nature, and to explore the many ways in which we’re connected to the world around us.
Another theme is the idea of introspection. Nature has a way of inspiring contemplation, and I often use my art as a way to explore my own thoughts and feelings about the world around me. I hope to encourage others to take a moment to pause, reflect, and connect with the natural world in a deeper way.”
How would you describe your work?
“I’m a versatile and creative artist who enjoys exploring different techniques and styles. My painting is deeply personal and authentic, reflecting my own experiences and emotions. I’m not afraid to explore difficult or uncomfortable topics, and I strive to present a truthful and unfiltered perspective.
My concept art and illustrations are done with enthusiasm, and I work closely with the client to help them bring their vision to life. I find this very exciting and rewarding, and I take great pleasure in these creations.”
Which artists influence you most?
“I’m not sure that I’m influenced by other artists, but I am inspired by many artists. In the early days of my illustrative artwork, I was inspired Jin Kim and Glen Keane.
I’ve also been fortunate to travel all over Europe and spend time in many amazing galleries. One of my favorite places is Monet’s Garden, not necessarily for his art, but for the place itself. Looking at the amazing environment he lived in, I can see why he had such a large catalogue of work. I can’t imagine having a home there and not being inspired to create art.”
What is your creative process like?
“I work with many mediums, so my process is different for each one. If I’ve been commissioned to illustrate a children’s book, it is a very structured process with storyboards. If I’m drawing a piece for myself, I experiment a lot more with design.
However, when undertaking an abstract painting, I paint how I feel on that day, using the colors that best reflect my headspace. The piece can turn out to be either serene or turbulent by the time I’m done.”
“Whether it be the beauty of nature or the challenges of everyday life, I’m constantly inspired to create new art that reflects my unique vision and style.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“An Artist’s role is to tell a story by creating works of art that can inspire, challenge, or provoke thought and emotion in those who experience them. This can be through creating beauty for aesthetic pleasure, preserving cultural heritage, or reflecting social and cultural views.
An Artist’s role can be as diverse as the art we create, and our impact on society can be far-reaching and long-lasting, as we have seen throughout the ages.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“These are some of the selected solo and group exhibitions I’ve participated in:
2023:
- Hastings Art Show.
- Bendigo Art Show.
- Frankston Art Show.
- Illustrated - The Adjustment Season.
2022:
- Mornington Art Show.
- Sorrento Art Show.
- Peninsula Arts Society.
- Spring into Summer .
Published:
2021 - Kingston Arts Centre. Illustrated Children’s Book, A Global Pandemic won't Change me.
Awards:
- Cardinia Cultural Centre Gallery Awards 2022.
- Trending Art - Best Local Artist on Show.
- Trending Art - Two Highly Commended Paintings 2022.
- Pixarra Character Design -2nd Place 2021.
- Young Australian Art Awards - Gold Medal, Runner up 2021.
- Pixarra - Fantasy Digital Art Competition 2nd Place People’s Choice 2019 - Up & coming - Young Achiever Award Cardinia Arts Society Resin & Flow Art.”
