We had the good fortune of connecting with Jenna Conlin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jenna, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I believe it’s a bigger risk to not take that leap of faith. People often avoid risks because they don’t want to fail. I think not even trying is a little selfish. My artwork points people to God so if I let the fear of rejection prevent me from expressing my faith, than I am putting someone’s eternity at risk by not sharing with them the gift of everlasting life, which is possible through relationship with Jesus Christ. In other words, if you aren’t taking chances than you are letting fear control your life which could in return be depriving others of freedom.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets me apart is that I’m not trying to create a name for myself. My name doesn’t matter at the end of the day. My desire is for everyone to know Jesus Christ as a personal friend. That is also what drives me to never give up, it’s not about me, it’s about the savior. This journey hasn’t been easy. Fear held me back for a long time. Comparing my skill level to others also held me back. I lacked confidence. But That’s just the thing; God created us all unique and different from each other for a reason. There’s only one of me and one of you, and we each have a specific job that God created us for. What we do isn’t just about us, it’s about the impact on the lives of those around us. That is what encouraged me to take that first step and never look back.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well a good hike is always a must! I enjoy Papago Park because it’s great for beginners or intermediate hikers. The rock formations are also unique from anywhere I’ve seen. For lunch I would probably take my friend to Fàme Caffe on Central Ave. in Phoenix for their great atmosphere and fresh food. And for a truly unforgettable experience I would take my friend to the Art of Surrender Gallery in Tempe. To view the incredible artwork of my mentor, Vanessa Horabuena. It is a place where the Creator and His creation collide through powerful awe inspiring paintings and it is open to the public Monday through Saturday.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The biggest shoutout has to go to Jesus Christ, my savior, my Lord, my God. God instilled in me the passion to create artwork from a very young age. He restored me and saved me from a dead end lifestyle. He gave me an amazing husband and daughter who support me and uplift me. If it wasn’t for God I wouldn’t have the desire to reach the lost and hurting through artwork, artwork that points to the only one who can save. I also would love to give a shout out to my mentor for the last year and a half, Vanessa Horabuena. Her passion for bringing glory to God has been a huge inspiration to me, and she has taught me priceless skills in the area of worship through speed art.

Website: www.JennaMaeArt.com

Instagram: @jennamaeart

Facebook: JennaMae Art

Other: TikTok: @jennamaeart

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