Daily Inspiration: Meet Jenn Rathweg

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenn Rathweg.

Hi Jenn, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my magazine collage journey back in 2019. I previously dabbled in many art forms, but the challenge of creating portraits from tiny bits of colorful scrap paper was exactly what I was looking for. I started with pets and landscapes, eventually branching off into portraits of people.
My family’s artistic history all began in the early 1900’s- Starting with my great grandfather, Aloys Segerer. He was a well known local artist who started his career painting railroad cars for Barney & Smith Car Company. He went on to paint the murals inside Dayton’s Memorial Hall and the Masonic Temple, as well as many other locations. I contribute a majority of my artistic drive to him.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
This journey has definitely not been a smooth road. I have dealt with plenty of moments of artist’s block and self-doubt. I was also rejected by my very first juried art show. Although these moments were disappointing, they were easily overcome by determination and support from my family and friends. Since then, I have been featured in several juried art shows, and eventually went on to have my own solo art exhibit hosted by the City of Centerville, OH.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I love telling others about what I do! I create portraits out of tiny, torn up pieces of magazines. I thoroughly comb through magazines, select the pages with the specific colors I need, and tear or cut them into the size I need to then adhere it to a sketched canvas. I love to add special details to each individual portrait. One of my favorites I have ever done incorporated small pieces of photos from the couple’s wedding. It helps make my portraits a one of a kind piece for the recipient.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I was lucky enough to have joined a local art center where I rented studio space for over 7 years. I met some of the most talented and like-minded folks during my time there. It gave me the opportunity to bounce ideas off of others, collaborate and gain support in an artistic setting. They were also my cheerleaders along my entire journey. I have since left the art center to pursue my art at home, but I did make lifelong connections that I am beyond grateful for.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.oddmotley.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oddmotley