Summer Featured Artist: Jess Kirkman

For our Summer featured artist we are proud to interview the inimitable Jess Kirkman!

1) How did you get started? Tell us a little about you.

Art has always been part of my life. I honestly don’t remember a time when I wasn’t creating something. I grew up in Upstate New York with Deadhead parents, so inspiration was everywhere: music, nature, spirituality, color, feeling. I studied Communication Design at Syracuse University, which helped bridge the gap between creativity and my chosen career path.

These days, I lead the creative team at Mattel by day, and I’m in my art studio whenever I can be. My time in the studio keeps me grounded. I’ve learned that separating my personal art from my job actually makes me create more freely, with less pressure.

I discovered alcohol inks in 2015 and instantly fell in love. As someone who loves control, this medium taught me how to let go. The way it moves, blends, resists structure - it became my necessary meditation. It quiets the noise and brings me back to being present.

2) What would you say are your specialties as an alcohol ink artist? What sets you apart?

I’ve heard people say my style is easy to recognize, which I take as a huge compliment. I think it comes down to the way I work with color, blends, and fine details - dotting, linework, layered depth. Nature is a huge inspiration for me, and my palette tends to reflect that.

I also love pushing the medium beyond the boundaries. One of my signature approaches is a 3D sculptural series I call my “Cell Series,” made of layered Yupo paper and ink. These pieces feel like something between a painting and a living thing.

And maybe the biggest thing that sets me apart? I don’t try to control the ink – I let it lead. 

3) Do you teach? How can we learn from you?

Yes! Teaching lights me up. I’ve taught hundreds of people – from total beginners to seasoned artists – both online and in-person, one-on-one and in groups. I try to create a space where people feel relaxed, inspired, and free to experiment. So many people say something clicks for them during my sessions, like they finally get how to work with the inks instead of trying to overly control them.

You can book lessons through my site (manifestjess.com) or DM me on Instagram @manifest.jess. I read and respond to every message!

4) What advice for new alcohol ink artists would you offer?

Play. Just play. Try everything. Let yourself mess up. That’s how I learned – by experimenting without expectations.

It’s easy to think you should be great right away, but honestly, I still have days where I make 10 pieces I hate before something finally clicks. That’s just part of the process.

And here’s a practical tip: don’t use too many colors at once. Start simple. One or two colors can create something absolutely stunning. The magic is in the movement, not the complexity.

5) What have you enjoyed most about using T-Rex Inks? Do you have any in-depth review videos / posts about using our inks we can link to?

T-Rex inks are dreamy. I’m a big earth-tone girl, and their palette speaks my language; rich, layered, and super blendable. They flow beautifully and play well together, which makes creating feel effortless. There’s a natural depth to them that makes your work feel alive without overworking it.

I’ve shared a few process vids and tutorials on my IG, so check those out!

Website: www.manifestjess.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/manifest.jess

Thanks so much for taking the time to talk with us Jess! You are an inspiration. We wish you the best in your art explorations!