Rising Stars: Meet Jackie Lewis

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jackie Lewis.

Hi Jackie, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have been an artist most of my life, exploring various mediums from watercolors to ceramics. However, it wasn’t until 2015 that I decided to start selling my work. Initially, it was just a part-time gig, creating simple jewelry pieces. Over the years, I delved into different mediums and techniques, including acrylics, oils, and photography. In 2017, I began woodburning, which has become a significant part of my creative journey. Despite finding this newfound passion, I have also revisited my roots in painting, particularly working with acrylics. The evolution of my artistry has been a fulfilling experience, pushing me to explore new horizons while staying true to my artistic essence.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Learning a brand-new medium on my own was challenging. I didn’t know anyone else practicing this art form, so it was all trial and error. I had to learn how to use the tools, read the grain, learning how different temperatures and various wood types react to burning. I also use rough sawn wood so there’s a lot of prep work up front before I even begin burning, along with the actual planning of the project that most artists do. Despite the challenges, the journey of mastering this art form has been incredibly rewarding. Each piece is unique and tells a story, a visual representation of the dedication and passion I pour into my craft.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
My primary medium is pyrography (woodburning) and acrylic painting. I also burn leather to make jewelry. I have built and burned custom furniture pieces, guitars, tools, axes, truck bed inserts, custom maps, and I’m currently creating a piece on a 1920’s Singer sewing machine, just to name a few examples. No two projects are ever the same, and it’s the variety of projects that keeps me inspired and learning. Each new project challenges me in a different way.

My goal is never to repeat a piece and I strive to push the edge of what is considered traditional woodburning. Blurring the line between craftsmanship and fine art is my mission, as I strive to redefine perceptions of wood art as purely utilitarian. Pyrography is rooted back to the ages of branding and is a very old art form, but I hope to see modern day woodburning find its place in museums.

What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Never be afraid of a challenge or to try something new. Without taking risks, your work would become stagnant. Experiment with mediums, materials, subject matter, inspiration sources, anything that gets your mind and hands working. Embrace the unknown and push yourself outside of your comfort zone. Each challenge is an opportunity for growth and discovery. I’m always looking forward to my next challenge, eager to see where it will take me and how it will shape my creative journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sites.google.com/view/jackie-c-lewis/home?authuser=6
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pyrography_artist_jackie_lewis/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jewelrybyjackie.jackielewis

Image Credits
Personal (headshot) photo credit: C.O. Media, @c.o_media on Instagram