Australian artist Jenni Rogers creates delightfully whimsical art that celebrates good food and dining out. See more of her portfolio by visiting her website.
“Brunch” mixed media, 63cm x 78cm
I live in the Byron Bay Hinterland, Australia, with my husband, mother, daughter, son-in-law, new grandbaby, chooks, sheep and two mini-foxy x chihuahuas. It’s a full house and full life!
“Chez Memere” oil, 34cm x 25cm
I had quite a journey to becoming a full-time artist and surface pattern designer. After leaving school at 14, I went to secretarial school and then to work at my parents’ business at a quarry in Sydney. I didn’t enjoy this too much. Sweeping floors and making coffee wasn’t what I thought I’d be doing as a secretary. After quitting and being fired way too many times, I managed to secure a job as a waitress.
“Happily Ever After” oil, 41cm x 51cm
After working there a few months, I discovered the business was for sale. My sister became a guarantor on a loan for me at the bank, and I bought my first business for $12,000 in 1985, The Chelsea Teahouse in Avalon. I had just turned 16.
“Tea for Two” mixed media, 21cm x 26cm
Being an artist wasn’t something I had ever dreamed of being able to do. While growing up in Sydney in the 70’s and 80’s, my goal was only to earn enough money to leave home. I eventually did that after buying the teahouse at 16.
“Lazy Sunday” oil, 59cm x 69cm
I later became a chef and went on to own many cafes, takeaways and bakeries. After having my first child, I realized this was not the best life for me. It was too difficult to raise a family and with the hours required in the food business, I spent too much time away from home.
“Market Combi” oil, 45.5cm x 35.5cm
One day I followed my Mum (who painted casually) to art class. I discovered an absolute joy in painting. I took folk art classes and completed three years doing Cert II & III in Fine Art and Contemporary Craft at Tafe. It’s only been the last four years that I’ve seriously pursued my art full-time.
“Lamington Recipe” watercolour, 21cm x 29cm
About a year and a half ago, I discovered surface pattern design. I found that I absolutely loved the idea of painting and turning the artwork into a pattern. Then I learnt Photoshop and took two surface pattern design courses to refine my skills. That included setting up a website and learning how to take photos and video reels.
“A Bird’s Breakfast Santorini” mixed media, 76cm x 61cm
My inspiration comes from so many sources as I live on acreage and I’m only minutes from the beach. To sum me up, I’m a little country and a little beachy and a whole lot of foodie. I am so excited to paint and create every day. It does not feel like work at all!
Jenni Rogers invites you to follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
Jenni,
I tried many things too on my journey to be an artist. I was a floral designer while going to college for art. Still did that after graduating for a while. I worked in a department store for many years while painting and entering art shows on the side. Now I am retired and painting animals and wildlife. I have website and try to sell prints of my paintings. Its still a struggle but I keep painting.
These are all so appealing. My favorite is Tea for Two.
It is coming along, at least it looks like art, keep going!