Meet The Maker: Jackie Juaristi

A native Floridian, this Orlando-born artist draws deep inspiration from the natural landscapes of her upbringing in Casselberry, where early days spent among oak trees, magnolias, and springs sparked a lasting connection to the environment. Working across painting, ceramics, and poetry, she creates largely abstract work that explores themes of life, time, and the natural world. Her vibrant gouache, watercolor, and acrylic ink paintings are a pretty accurate representation of Jackie, who is equally as joyful and vibrant with an exuberant and infectious laugh.

Are you a native Floridian? Where did you grow up?

I am a native Floridian! I was born in Orlando and grew up in the suburb of Casselberry. I grew up running around outside under the oak trees, climbing the magnolias, and swimming in the springs, which started my lifelong fascination and adoration with nature.

Tell us a little about yourself. What do you make? 

I am an interdisciplinary artist working mainly in painting and ceramics, as well as poetry. I am largely an abstract artist; my favorite kind of work to create incorporates big ideas, the physical work, and writing. I lean towards gouache, acrylic inks, and watercolor paintings, and earthenware ceramics with underglazes for maximum color. I feel my paintings often tell a nuanced story about life, time, and the natural world, while my ceramics are a catalyst to represent joy.

What do you like most about creating art?

Entering flow state and connecting to something inside of me that is unreachable otherwise.

How many hours a week do you spend creating? How would you describe your work style?

It depends if I am working on a show, market, or other goal. I work on paintings throughout the year, often sporadically experimenting. Recently, I have been focused on gouache paintings of plants in my favorite place, and painting plein air. I love the simplicity of having just a sketchbook, brushes, and set paints. As for ceramics, I often take a break after the holiday rush and don’t go back to the studio until the weather warms. I like to enjoy Florida winter and spring outside!

What inspires you in your day to day?

Plants, weather, light, water, science, the curiosity of children, and sensations in my body.

What other hobbies, interests or day jobs keep you busy when you’re not creating?

I’m an art teacher and out in the community a lot in groups. I am often at the park, too. Lately I’ve been attending my regular writing groups and cooking classes as well! I love to try new things on the regular.

Are there any artistic mediums that you have not worked with but would like to try and why?

I got to practice stained glass when I was in middle school, and I’d love to go back and try again! I love the process and fragility of the medium and how the piece will change with light.

What have you learned about yourself from the process of creating?  

Everything.

How has your community in Orlando supported you or given you inspiration?

The local artists in Orlando have made me feel seen and are always willing to help with an art event or need! The locals at the Orlando Pottery Studio are especially helpful and have become close friends.

Dogs or cats?  

Cats!

Random fact about yourself?

I just learned I am  terrible at thinking of random facts!

What does the word “veer” mean to you? 

Shifting, but in a way that leans towards growth.