We had the good fortune of connecting with Jamie Koplin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jamie, why did you pursue a creative career?
I started pursuing art at a very young age. It’s always been an escape for me to help me reset my mind, feel less anxious, and also to build my self esteem. Art has always been one of my passions, and I’ve been creating with different mediums almost my whole life. I love the feeling of having made something new, of bringing something fresh into this world. I love the process of making things. It’s where o loose track of time, find my “flow”, and reground myself.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets my art apart from others is my ability to create something using a myriad of techniques from different mediums and styles. Graphic Novels have had a particularly strong influence on me, and while I don’t work digitally, I tend to approach a piece with with graphic arts influences, using classic fine arts materials and techniques.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
First comes food! We would visit all of my favorite vegan friendly hotspots! Seabirds, Sura, Plant Power, 4th Horseman, For drinks, and music, Vine on 4th, the Pike, Long Beach Taphouse, or any of the several local breweries!
Lastly, we’d go shopping on 4th street’s Retro Row or 2nd Street in Belmont Shore.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I had a lot of support for making art, when I was a child, from my Grandparents and Teachers. They were the most encouraging people to me back then. Of course, I also had friends that were very supportive of me. To everyone that’s supported and encouraged my artistic endeavors, I am deeply thankful.

Website: JamieKoplin.com

Instagram: JamieKoplinStudios

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