Meet Jensen Perehudoff | Illustrator

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

Hi Jensen, why did you pursue a creative career?
From a young age, I’ve always felt a magnetic pull towards the arts. I never grew out of the childlike desire to express myself through a pencil on paper. Due to my initial shyness, I found my refuge in my sketchbook, where I could pour out my thoughts and creativity without saying a single word. Family gatherings became less daunting when I could sneak off to draw, and while at school I could hide away in the art room If I needed to. As I grew older, though, I began to embrace my identity as an “art kid.” It was a label that not only defined my passion but also became a bridge for me to connect with others in my adolescence. Suddenly, being the “art kid” wasn’t just about creating; it was about owning my uniqueness and finding my voice that I could share with those around me.
The reality check came when I entered art school, and I was met with a sobering realization – I wasn’t alone in my pursuit. The world was full of aspiring artists, each with their own story to tell and their own dreams to chase. It was a humbling yet intimidating revelation, one that made me question my place in the vast landscape of the art world. However, as I navigated through this sea of talent, something remarkable happened. What initially seemed like a daunting competition transformed into a supportive community of peers. The successes of my fellow artists no longer fueled envy but ignited a fire within me.
Pursuing a career in illustration is not for the faint of heart. It requires unwavering dedication, creativity, and a willingness to embrace the unknown. Yet, it is a career that excites me, with the possibility to push the boundaries of my imagination, to bring joy into the monotony of life, and to create something that resonates with the hearts and souls of others.
Now working outside of school, I am filled with gratitude for all that my pursuit of illustration has given me. My journey in the art realm is not just about the destination, but about all you can learn and experience along the way. It is a constantly exciting and equally disappointing career path, though I embrace the challenge and am eager to leave my mark on the industry.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My art endeavors to encapsulate the whimsical essence found in a child’s artwork while embracing the simple joys that resonate with me. As an adult, I’ve embraced a vibrant palette, refusing to forsake the innocence of childhood pursuits. Vintage and contemporary toys, alongside illustrators like Richard Scarry and Rose O’Neil, serve as wellsprings of inspiration, evoking the same playful whimsy I strive to convey. The delightful charm infused within my creations excites a sense of pure joy into my life.
Navigating the professional landscape has been a journey filled with peaks and valleys. Celebrating the triumphs of seeing my work published is exhilarating, yet equally significant is weathering the storm of rejection and the following self-doubt. The path ahead may seem uncertain, but I firmly believe that my illustration transcends mere livelihood, it’s a manifestation of passion and purpose. Many working artists supplement their income with other jobs, a reality that in no way diminishes their dedication or professionalism within the field. Life’s unpredictable twists and turns underscore the importance of resilience. It’s about mustering the strength to rise from setbacks, embracing failure as a catalyst for growth, and forging ahead with unwavering determination.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Portland, Maine has a delightful array of attractions, combining its picturesque cobblestone streets with a vibrant arts and food scene, all nestled amidst the backdrop of nature. If I were to guide a friend through this charming city, I’d ensure they experience its diverse offerings. Starting with a leisurely stroll to the Eastern Promenade, we’d bask in the serenity of this scenic park, complete with a picturesque beach and tempting food trucks for a picnic. For a taste of history and stunning coastal views, a visit to the iconic Portland Head Light is a must, offering a glimpse into the city’s heritage, and admire the view. No visit would be complete without a stop at Red’s for their soft serve ice cream, a quintessential summer treat.
Downtown Portland has an array of bars and eateries to suit anyone. From the lobster fan at High Roller to the delightful breakfast at Dutch’s, and the classic lunch fare at Cheese Louise, there’s something to satisfy every craving. The city’s vibrant arts scene comes alive during the First Friday Art Walk, where local artists showcase their talents and galleries open their doors, as well as free admission to the Portland Museum of Art. With its abundance of activities, Portland offers endless possibilities for exploration. Whether it’s hopping on a ferry to explore neighboring islands, soaking up the sun on beach, or catching a movie at the Nickelodeon cinemas, there’s no shortage of ways we could fill our day.

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?
When reflecting on those who have played pivotal roles in shaping my artistic journey whom deserve a shout out, my mother stands out in my mind for her unwavering support. As a single parent, she demonstrated strength and resilience, ensuring that I never faltered in pursuing my passion, even when the path seemed uncertain. I am eternally grateful for the privilege of having her presence and unconditional love in my life, serving as a constant source of inspiration and encouragement.
Additionally, I owe a debt of gratitude to my elementary school art teacher, Maria Blanco, whose faith in my artistic potential ignited a spark within me from a young age. Her encouragement and guidance fostered a sense of confidence and self-belief, laying the foundation for my journey as an artist. Through her mentorship, I learned to embrace my unique creative voice and cultivate a passion for visual expression that continues to fuel my artistic endeavors to this day.
The dedicated professors at Ringling College of Art and Design also played an instrumental role in shaping my artistic growth and development. Their tireless dedication to nurturing the talents of their students instilled in me a sense of discipline, perseverance, and artistic excellence. Among them, Don Brandes stands out as a positive inspiration, his infectious enthusiasm for the art-making process left an indelible impression on my artistic sensibilities. Despite only taking two of his classes, his passion and expertise served as a catalyst for my own artistic exploration.
Lastly, I am deeply grateful for the camaraderie and support of fellow artists I have befriended along the way, both during my time at college and in the vibrant artistic community where I now reside. Their companionship, encouragement, and shared passion for creativity have enriched my journey as an artist, fostering a sense of belonging that continues to inspire me to strive for my goals. Together, they serve as a constant source of inspiration, pushing me to new heights of creativity and innovation as I navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the art world.

Website: https://Jperehudoff.com

Instagram: @pairofrudolphs

Image Credits
Jensen Perehudoff