Meet Jeffrey Felten-Green
Describe Jeffrey Felten-Green's art in three words? “Vibrant, engaging, and organic” said the Cheverly, MD-based artist. And it’s true - when viewing his pieces, you are immediately transported to a wonderland of vibrant, engaging, and organic art. We sat down with Jeffrey to talk about his art, his inspirations, and what conversations he thinks the art world should be having right now.
The Art of Jeffery Felten-Green
Fire & Bliss: What inspires your artwork the most?
Jeffrey: I'm always looking to show art in a new way - my art is about storytelling, flipping the stories and showing them in a more interesting way. So for example, in my piece "Everything is Everything" I wanted to take the slaves from the fields and change the story line where they are now working in flower patches - I wanted to make the whole story more positive. Not to say I want to forget it - but what if?
Fire & Bliss: Who do you make art for?
Jeffrey: I make art for myself. I love talking to myself through my art and I try to make whatever is in my mind a conversation. It's what I want to say about what's going on in the world. It's a dialogue, an ongoing conversation.
Fire & Bliss: When did you realize you wanted to be an artist?
Jeffrey: I noticed early on. I was always doodling, I always wanted to make big pictures and do more than what the teacher was asking. Even when I was younger and didn't have any art supplies, I'd use paper bags, etc [to create]. It's just who I am.
“ I think the most important conversations to be having are about: the environment, the importance of getting along with one another, holding the government accountable in the US and abroad, and protecting animals and their habitats.”
Fire & Bliss: What does equity in the art world look like for you?
Jeffrey: Supporting each other - if artists would support each other - follow each other, have conversations and dialogues with one another, try to find ways to point each other in new/different directions, there would be more equity.
It's hard to be an artist anyways and I think if we support each other, we'll always be in the forefront. [This is especially important] for young people who may have been kept out of school [recently], we want to make and keep art important.
Fire & Bliss: In addition to purchasing your art, what are other ways fans of your work can support you?
Jeffrey: I try to be omnipresent so it's best to follow me on social media to continue our dialogue. You can find me on Facebook, Instagram, and Tumblr. I'm with Fire & Bliss and the Hyattsville Community Art Center.