Artist of the Month│Jodie Niss: Have Fun in the Process
Jodie Niss - Untitled
Earlier this year we enlisted the help of the UJC Senior Center's members and art instructors, as well as local artists, to put together an art gallery with the hope of bringing joy to our community.
Every month we'll be sharing interviews with the artists that collaborated with the project.
Jodie Niss│Brooklyn, NYC
Jodie Niss - Untitled
Jodie Niss is an artist and art teacher based in Brooklyn, New York, where she has her own art school: Jodie Niss Studio. She hosts a beloved Art Class at the UJCES Lunch Club, teaching senior citizens basics on drawing, as well as lessons on creativity.
When did you start painting?
I started painting when I was 5 years old.
Do you have a ritual to work on your art?
I like to think and meditate before I paint. I do lots of sketching and image research.
What inspires you?
My emotional response to what is going on in my life and in culture inspires me.
Can you tell me about your experience teaching art to seniors?
I love teaching. Teaching seniors is such a joy. Really every age is the same. It's all about finding the best way to help people find the joy in art and confidence in making art. I love the community and friendship we have created. I try to teach foundations while encouraging creatively.
What's your favorite thing about NYC? Or your favorite spot in the city?
I’m a big fan of Chinatown and the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens.
Do you have some advice that you would like to share?
Have fun in the process of art making. Expression and joy come first. Techniques develop over time.
Learn more about Jodie Niss’ work:
