Meet Eva F

Today we’d like to introduce you to Eva F.

Eva, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I began my art journey in New York City in April 2020 as Covid hit the city hard and quickly many storefronts were boarded up. I began drawing with chalk on the boarded-up locations to bring life to the city that had so quickly become devoid of the usual hustle and bustle. I am not formally trained as an artist and had not actively pursued my artistic inclinations since I was a 12-year-old in Oklahoma.

As my journey has continued, I have developed into using more approaches to art and also have begun creating studio works. When I was in Nashville in 2021, I was so inspired by the live music scene. It was the first time in almost 2 years that I had been able to experience live music and music has always been an important part of my life. I used the inspiration from my time in Nashville to create the capstone piece of what became my first solo art show. Wherever I go, I always bring some art materials to capture the feelings I experience.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Life is always a winding road, which is what makes it both interesting and challenging. Becoming an artist was not something that I planned; however, I have always lived my life to find the best even in tough times. My father died when I was young and I had to become more grown up than my age quickly. So, I focused my efforts on schoolwork, being an excellent student, and being able to support myself. And while some may say it’s a shame that I had to put my art aside for practical matters, I am actually grateful that I am now able to be at a stage in life where I can take full advantage of creative freedom to create visual images that make me smile without worrying about what others think. I love that my joy can show through and I believe that is what many respond to in my work … my true authentic self.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’ve worked in chalk, spray paint, oil pastels, acrylic paint, found objects, tape, slaps, pencil, marker … you name it! I also love taking pictures of my work on the street as people walk by it, makes it feel so alive.

One unique thing about my work is that when I paint, I take an unconventional approach, I use my hands, not brushes. I also love to do quick things that surprise and delight on the street, a quick flower or heart or love in chalk on a construction board, a sidewalk, a lamppost, a piece of discarded furniture!

The thing I love about working on the street is the art you find makes it feel like you’ve found treasure on a treasure hunt you didn’t know you were on! There are some artifacts of my time in Nashville that you might find if you keep your eyes open.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I love the energy and, that Nashville, like New York, is a place that people come to realize their dreams, even if they seem crazy.

One of the things I noticed when I was in local bars is that often the bands would have one woman and the rest of the band was men. The woman would sing a song, then be sent out with the tip bucket when she should be up there singing! I guess that is the less positive side of traditional roles.

However, when I saw that happening, I gave that amazing woman $100 and told her to tell the guys to let her sing! I requested “Hell on Heels”. She went back up on stage and killed it! That was the inspiration for my work “hey baby, let the girl sing” which was a part of my show “serious lists” in the Meatpacking District in January.

“Hey baby, let the girl sing” is a call to self-expression and love of all individuals in their multidimensionality. It depicts a girl, fearless of what others may think, representing women who are often constrained by tradition, expectation, and fear. It is a reminder that those we may view as silly, powerless or insignificant are often the bravest in showing themselves honestly to the world. I try to bring that in my art journey and hope to inspire others to do as well.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: thechalkjungle.com
• Instagram: @thechalkjungle
• Twitter: @thechalkjungle