Jess Peoples
My earliest memories are all about crafting with my grandma and feeling her radiance after hearing the brilliant stories she told. Storytelling, community, and connection were central themes across both sides of my extended family, where the bigger the tale, the more joy it sparked. Laughter filled the air as voices overlapped, each person eager to share their take. These experiences shaped my creative spirit. I collected art that reminded me of the people I loved and the stories that defined us. Our family time, especially with my dad’s familiar and well-worn anecdotes, revolved around recounting weekly events and memorable connections. I often reflected on these moments through painting, using it as a means to process emotions and make sense of life.
After earning my bachelor’s degree from Miami University, I moved to Nashville to work in design and marketing for startups and nonprofits. Eventually, I carved out space for painting intentionally, joining the Chestnut Group in 2019 and engaging deeply with the local art community. I’ve continued to grow through the mentorship of artists like Anne Blair Brown and through the Nashville Painters Salon, where collaboration and critique sharpen our practice. Now painting from my home studio alongside my husband, two children, and our dog Larry, my work explores themes of nature, storytelling, and resilience. It’s my hope that each piece brings a sense of warmth and spirit to those who encounter it.