Opinion of Artwork and Gallery Page by Jen Frost Smith

Upon entering Jen Frost Smith’s gallery page, I was struck by the child-like drawings and crazy colors. I immediately thought “…This is actually in a gallery??” and, no lie, I rolled my eyes. That was until I decided to look through her works. I then realized she was a genius. Seriously a genius. On the front page is an eye-popping exhibit involving many cats in many forms, including wall paint, canvas, and what looks to be painted clay to make a point. Feel good. Great phrases such as “Magic is real!” and “UR AWESOME!” spill out from what looks to be a smiling, poop emoji…in which, no lie, made me laugh in a way I haven’t laughed in months. I caught myself chuckling as I found small details, such as the kitty on the laptop that another toon cat seems to be playing around on. The cartoony snacks all around him speaks volumes about his surfing habits and immediately felt familiar, as I have done the same while binging youtube videos or gaming on the laptop.

Many of her works delve into self-appreciation and feeling good. Many are not just visual traps to ensure the feelings of good will…some are impressively interactive, such as with her “Good-vibes” exhibit, which involved a pair of fuzzy arms that grant hugs to people passing through for a fun photo-op. Many of the people used as an example for the use of the art have ear-to-ear grins while looking ridiculous in the arms of the fuzzy wall arms, which says it all regarding Jen’s intentions for her works. I love this aspect of her work as it feels very original and almost has a playhouse vibe. Most works you will run into have a hands-off policy, but Jen’s are VERY hands on. Burning into one’s memories texture along with the visuals. Who can forget being hugged by an art piece?

Her deluge work has a bit more of her own self in it and moves beyond purely “Feel good”. It delves in insecurities and fears of Jen’s, which are relatable. What stands out for me, and I find it incredibly original…is her art “key” so the symbolism could be understood by anyone. It’s incredibly refreshing and lacks the almost self-important vibe that comes from art that does it’s best to alienate the person looking at the art. She tries her best to have you understand her and her world, which is very endearing and has me thirsting for more from her. She has definitely won a fan for life!