Meet Jennifer Claussen | EcoArtist and Sculptor

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

Hi Jennifer, what role has risk played in your life or career?

I wholeheartedly believe that taking risks is vital for personal and professional growth. When it comes to my life and career, I consider calculated risks as the preferred approach in the realm of business. However, I have come to realize that in other areas of my life where I took risks without excessive analysis, I have experienced positive and eye-opening outcomes.

For me, overanalyzing situations can be paralyzing. I feel that it is essential to remain open to change and embrace the unknown. When we take action and witness the results, we become true creatives, tapping into our innate ability to think outside the box. I firmly believe that everyone possesses a creative spirit, even if they may not recognize it themselves.

In my studio, above my workbench, there is a quote that has always resonated with me: “the biggest risk in life is not taking one.” This quote encapsulates my belief that without daring to take leaps of faith and challenge ourselves, we risk leading a life that is significantly different and less fulfilling. It is through these leaps that we discover our potential and unlock new opportunities for personal and professional development.

Taking risks has played a pivotal role in shaping my life and career. By stepping outside my comfort zone, I have encountered unforeseen challenges, but I have also discovered hidden strengths and abilities within myself. Each risk I have taken has served as a catalyst for growth, pushing me to overcome obstacles and reach new heights. Without the willingness to take risks, I would not have experienced the same level of personal fulfillment and achieved the milestones that have shaped my journey.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

The art I create revolves around our connection with nature and the profound healing it can bring to our physical, spiritual, and mental well-being. As an ecoartist, I find motivation in repurposing materials, breathing new life into them while simultaneously expressing my love for our planet. Most sculptures I design are carefully composed from an object I found in my time in nature and highlighted with man-made materials I have fabricated.

What sets me apart from others is my focus on salvaged materials, each possessing its own distinctive personality and guiding me in selecting complementary elements to highlight the colors, textures, and patterns they possess. By utilizing these materials, I am reimagining what already exists and allowing viewers to think about a rotting branch completely differently.

While my passion for art has been a lifelong pursuit, the path to where I am today professionally has not been a linear one. I have faced challenges in the traditional business realm, as well as in my sports and hobbies, and these experiences have not only fueled my desire to create more but have also instilled in me the courage to take risks. Throughout my journey, I have learned the importance of striking a balance between contemplation and action. Sometimes, it is necessary to step back and examine a situation, while at other times, it is best to dive in and power through challenges head-on.

One of the aspects I am most proud of and excited about in my recent works is the intention to excite the senses of the viewer. I want each piece to spark curiosity and invite the viewer on their own personal journey as they explore the intricate details. My hope is that these sculptures offer an opportunity for reflection, encouraging individuals to reconsider how we treat ourselves, the Earth, and each other. By experiencing my artwork, I aspire to inspire a deeper appreciation for the preservation of local natural spaces and a renewed commitment to environmental stewardship.

In essence, my art is a manifestation of my deep connection with nature and my desire to make a positive impact on the world. Through repurposing materials and creating thought-provoking compositions, I aim to spark conversations, evoke emotions, and inspire change. I want the world to know that my art is not only an expression of creativity but also a vehicle for promoting environmental consciousness and encouraging a greater sense of harmony with our natural surroundings.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

If my best friend were visiting the area for a week, I would want to share the unique offerings of our wooded suburb north of Houston with the vibrant experiences the city itself has to offer. Here’s a little itinerary that would showcase some of the places I find unique or interesting:

Day 1:
Welcome them to our home and enjoy refreshing fruit beverages made with ingredients from our garden.
Relax and take a dip in our spool (a small pool and spa combination) while surrounded by the serene beauty of our wooded lot.
In the evening, cozy up by a fire and chat, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
Day 2:
Start the day with a few rounds of pickleball or table tennis, accompanied by some energizing rock reggae music.
Head to The Woodlands Waterway area for a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterway, exploring the charming shops and boutiques.
Indulge in a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants within walking distance, offering a variety of cuisines to suit different tastes.
Day 3:
If weather permits, venture out for a kayaking or mountain biking adventure in the surrounding area.
Visit the Conroe Art League and Ardest Gallery, where my artwork is on display and available for purchase. Explore the vibrant local art scene and appreciate the creativity of various artists.
Take the opportunity to engage in conversations with fellow art enthusiasts and gain insights into the local artistic community.
Day 4-7:
Venture into Houston and embark on a culinary journey. Start with Moon Tower, a lively spot offering a wide selection of craft beers and gourmet hotdogs or tacos made from wild game.
For late-night fun, head to Voodoo Queen, known for its delicious hush puppy chicken finger basket and creative adult slushies. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, play pool or air hockey, and people-watch the eclectic mix of patrons.
Attend a professional sports game, immersing yourselves in the excitement of Houston’s sports culture.
Visit Sawyer Yards, a hub for artists, galleries, and studios, to witness the creativity and craftsmanship of local talents. Alternatively, explore the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (MFAH), especially if there is a special exhibit in town.
For a culinary delight with a twist, dine at Xochi for a high-end experience, or opt for Cuchara for equally delicious cuisine at a more affordable price.
If spicy Asian flavors are on the menu, Mala Sichuan is the place to go.
Enjoy a leisurely brunch at Urban Eats or Weights and Measures, savoring delicious dishes while catching up and enjoying each other’s company.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Cynthia Reid has been a great mentor and introduced me to not only the book by Julie Cameron called “The Artist Way”, but also a community of other creative entrepreneurs.

Website: https://www.jenniferclaussen.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_claussen/