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Meet Juniper Briggs, Minted +domino’s Featured Monthly Artist!
text by ANNA KOCHARIAN
Growing up in the mountains of North Carolina, Juniper Briggs was surrounded by a community of artists. Inspired by the glassblowers, potters, and painters around, she learned to incorporate creativity into her everyday life. Briggs went on to get a degree in Cross-Cultural Communications through the Arts, which included a year abroad, studying Performance Arts in Mexico and Spain. Following graduation, Briggs made the move to Barcelona where she immersed herself in the works of such artists as Picasso, Dalí, and Miró, while teaching ESL. Years later, after returning stateside, Briggs began working for an art gallery in Southern California, which allowed her access to a broad spectrum of contemporary artists, gallery owners, and museum curators. This, in turn, would eventually come to fuel her burgeoning career in the arts. Today, the self-taught artist spends her time working out of her home studio, a space she shares with her two daughters, the little budding artists. Here, Briggs touches on her inspirations and the one place that will always have her heart.
WHERE DO YOU FEEL MOST INSPIRED? In my studio. I’m a mom of two little girls so my studio time is often my only me-time. I’m usually surrounded by the sounds of squabbles, squeals, giggles, and constant chatter. Someone is always spilling something or asking for something. Going into my studio is like stepping into a sacred, blissfully calm space where I can turn on my music, clear my mind, and let my intuition and imagination take over.
WHAT MAKES A HOME BEAUTIFUL? Love! But also high ceilings, natural light, houseplants, fresh flowers, beautiful artwork (including finger paintings by the kiddos), and objects that tell a story.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT BEING AN ARTIST? I recently read a quote by Gerhard Richter, that said, ‘Art is the highest form of hope.’ That really resonated with me.I love everything about the creative process. Beginning with the ideas swirling around my head and culminating in a finished piece of work. It truly is an exercise in hope and I have the privilege of practicing it every day.
WHAT IS YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSION? My engagement and wedding rings. Oh, and my laptop with all our family photos and videos on it, not to mention my art portfolio.
ON WHAT ITEMS DO YOU SCRIMP? I’m a big thrifter, especially when it comes to finding the right pieces for our home. The mid-century credenza in our sitting room and the three industrial lights that hang over our dining room were all thrift store scores. I painted the credenza to give it a more modern feel and my husband made a beautiful fixture out of the lights.
ON WHAT ITEMS DO YOU SPLURGE? Good food. I’m a bit of a foodie and I try not to scrimp when it comes to cooking with delicious, seasonal ingredients, even if it costs a little more. I also love eating out and discovering new restaurants.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE TRAVEL DESTINATION? I love going home to the Blue Ridge Mountains where I grew up. Locally, I like taking day trips to the farmland, rivers, and wineries around the Shenandoah Valley, or to the Museums around D.C. If we’re talking about travel abroad, Spain will always have my heart.