Jen O'Connell is a Cincinnati-based artist known for her striking acrylic paintings that capture the essence of nature and local landscapes. Growing up in the quaint town of Oldenburg, Indiana, Jen developed a profound appreciation for the natural world. Her childhood was filled with explorations of the countryside alongside her family, fostering a deep connection to the environment that continues to inspire her artwork today.
Pursuing her passion for art, Jen attended Indiana University, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts Studio and Art History. During her studies, she honed her artistic skills drawing inspiration from both contemporary and classical artists.
Jen's work is characterized by its vivid use of color and light, reflecting her ongoing fascination with the natural beauty that surrounds her. She actively participates in local art shows and exhibitions, where she enjoys engaging with patrons and fellow artists. Over the past 16 years, her art has been featured in numerous juried shows, earning her several awards and recognition within the art community.
She is a member of RISE, a local learning based art collective that helps artists grow their business while contributing to the expansion of art experiences in public schools.
Shows and awards include:
-Springfield Township Surge Project Winner
-Augusta Art in the Park where she won Best in Show for 2D Art
-Art North at Westheimer Gallery where she won a Juror’s Award and Award of Excellence from jurors Matt Distel and Chris Payne
-Richmond Riverfest Art Festival where she won First Place in Fine Arts
-Wyoming Art Exhibit where she twice won an Honorable Mention Award
-The Healing Arts Project in Oxford where she won a Purchase Prize Award
-Evendale Art Show where she won a Juror’s Distinction Award
-Bellevue Art in the Park where she won Honorable Mention
-Hyde Park Square Art Show
-Westwood Art Show
-Loveland Art Festival
-Essex Studio Visiting Artist
-Art in Nature at Pyramid Hill in Hamilton
-Putting the Pieces Together Art Show at Maple Knoll in Springdale
-Indigenous Gallery Art Tile Exhibit where she demonstrated her talents at creating alcohol ink tile paintings
-Southeastern Indiana Art Guild Regional Art Exhibit in Aurora, Indiana
-Madiera Art Show
-Art Local in Springfield Township
-Oakley’s Red Tree Gallery