WHO ARE YOU, WHERE ARE YOU FROM, & WHAT DO YOU DO?
My name is Jessica Ream and I was born in Columbus, Ohio early in the year 1990, but was raised in Carolina suburbia. I attended Savannah College of Art and Design where i graduated with honors and a BFA in Painting. I am a jack-of-all trades artist who incorporates my understanding of painting, photography, print, sewing and sculpture into her mixed media, abstract pieces.

In recent years, I have rediscovered my love of hand binding books. While mainly self taught, I
I was first introduced to the world of book arts in a workshop I attended while studying abroad. My hand bound journals are made from a mix of traditional materials and rebound, vintage books.

After spending the past five years in the High Rockies of Colorado, my husband and I returned to our southeastern, coastal origins, where we reside with our son and two, four-legged, furry children.

DESCRIBE YOUR PROCESS.
My painting process is very intuitive. I usually will have a few small concepts in mind for composition but then from there, they usually reveal themselves as we go.

As for bookbinding, I try to use as many found or repurposed books as possible. I really enjoy hand tearing the paper for the pages, rather than cutting. The raw deckle edge is just so cozy feeling.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
Currently my mixed media paintings are inspired by the visual interaction of humans with the natural world. The collision points are so layered and intricate and layered, that I find myself constantly fascinated by them, especially now living in the city.

My bookbinding is inspired by the old books I find. I find a lot of fulfillment in the challenge of giving old things a new life.

FUN FACT ABOUT YOU.
I’m still obsessed with Harry Potter books, consume earl grey tea on a level that borders addiction and can juggle.

FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOWNTOWN AUGUSTA.
Back in my runner days, I always found going for a run was the best way  to learn a new town or city. Now, I just really enjoy going for walks. You really get to know a place by moving around on foot rather than car. So I’m just looking forward to exploring and seeing what all downtown Augusta has to offer.

WHY DO YOU LOVE TO DESIGN, CREATE + MAKE?
It’s not so much a why, as much as it is a need to do so. Even if I wasn’t doing this full time, I’d still be doing what I do- it’s how I process the world and my thoughts. I’ve done it for as long as I can remember and I can’t imagine not doing so.

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD SHARE WITH OTHER ARTISTS + MAKERS?
Just keep making your art. The world needs more art and beauty, so keep on creating in whatever capacity you can in whatever season you’re in and trust the people who find joy in your work will find you.