Meet Jessica Hooks | Aspiring Illustrator & Artist

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

Hi Jessica, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
During my upbringing in South L.A., residing with my mom and grandmother, I developed a keen interest in drawing. I was influenced by the books I read and the programs I watched but also growing up in a creative environment. My mother works as a Pattern Maker in the Fashion Industry. Although her work is more technical than creative, artistic abilities are needed. Upon relocating to Pasadena during my preteen years and living with my stepdad, who also helped to influence my creativity, was attending Art Center College of Design. I immersed myself in art classes throughout my high school and college years. Despite focusing on Graphic Design initially, I realized my preference for traditional art over digital media. Reflecting on my choices, I regret not following my instinct to pursue Fine arts or Illustration.

I didn’t care for Graphic Design, but I took the skills that I learned along with the fashion influence on my mom’s side and found work as a Fashion Assistant. I really enjoyed working in the Fashion industry. I got to use some of my artistic skills and graphic designing for some popular brands. I worked in the industry for almost 4 years. I couldn’t find work afterwards so a friend of mine help me to find work in the healthcare industry. I am now working as a living assistant and CNA for those with special needs, but this doesn’t serve my artistic ambitions. So I started drawing again, taking online classes and watching tutorials. Eventually, I developed my own style, focused on my love for traditional artwork along with my love of vintage fashion.

I think that my childhood heavily influences me today. Not only my parents background, but the books I’ve read and loved. One of the things I remember the most are the beautiful illustrations I’ve seen on those pages and today I try to satisfy the inner child by recreating what I saw but with quirkiness and aesthetic.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My artistry is born from a blend of fairy tale enchantment, nature’s wonders, and a flair of fashion. Using primarily black and white, employing pen and ink, and occasionally adding color pencil, I evoke the timeless charm of old storybooks. This monochromatic approach invites viewers to see beyond color, focusing solely on the essence of my subjects. I intentionally craft them to transcend ethnicity, celebrating the beauty inherent in all backgrounds, while also spotlighting the magnificence of black women.

My aspiration is to become a recognized illustrator, honing my craft through continuous creation, improvement, and active participation within the vibrant art community on social media. However, my journey is not without its challenges, particularly in cultivating confidence in my work. Yet, I understand that artistic appreciation is subjective; some will embrace my creations, while others may not, and that’s perfectly acceptable. My primary motive in sharing my artwork is to convey the joy of its creation, not to seek validation. Each instance of sharing, whether online or in upcoming local art markets, marks a milestone in my artistic journey. Through this process, I’ve come to realize that self-belief, confidence, and unwavering determination are the true keys to success.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Starting from Monday, we would first visit one of my favorite museums, The Getty Museum. After a few hours there we would go walk the Santa Monica Pier then go enjoy some Caribbean food at Cha Cha Chicken. Tuesday we would go to the LACMA museum and possibly visit the Academy of Motion Pictures next door. We would end the day with some delicious chicken at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken. Wednesday we would have a nature filled day and enjoy a nice hike at Eaton Canyon Trail. After working up an appetite, we would go enjoy a hot meal at Noodle Street inside the Santa Anita Mall. For dessert, we will be eating a fluffy cheesecake at Uncle Tetsu. Thursday we would go visit the Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens. After a long day of walking and touring, we would enjoy delicious thai dishes at Daisy Mint located in Pasadena. Friday we are on our way to visit Little Tokyo for some shopping and eating. We grab a bite at Kura Revolving Sushi Bar. Saturday we are going to Disneyland. While there we will be riding one of my favorite rides; Space Mountain. Also, enjoying the rides and food at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Finally Sunday we will go to one of my favorite bookstores, The Last Bookstore, then grab a bite at Grand Central Market.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I dedicate this to my parents for bringing me up in an open-minded environment, with opportunities for enrichment. Also, my family and friends who give me constant encouragement.

Website: https://www.jhooksillustration.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessummart_/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jessummerart

Other: TikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/@jessummart?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc