Biography

Inspired by the intangibles of the universe, Grace Chepenik finds her muse in the beauty of nature and the vitality of life. A native of Jacksonville, Florida, Chepenik's artistic journey began with a shared loved for creating with her painter grandmother, sparking a lifelong passion. This passion led her to obtain her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Sculpture and Painting from the University of Miami. In 2018, Chepenik's artistic path took a significant turn when she discovered glassblowing. Her artwork is a reflection of the natural world that surrounds her, heavily influenced by the tropical landscapes of South Florida and her occasional retreats to Aruba.


 Artist Statement

My work is dedicated to capturing the intricate relationship between spirit and nature. Through vibrant colors, bold brushstrokes, and patterns, I celebrate the profound connection that each subject shares with the universe. My focus often revolves around conveying the energy of beings and commemorating their deep connection to the world beyond themselves. When portraying animals, I emphasize their innate harmony with nature, highlighting the enveloping energy that surrounds them. This is represented through the use of electric colors, converging patterns, radiant halos, and symbolic imagery.

I have always held a profound love for painting, but now I approach my work with a sculptural-painter mindset. After discovering a deep passion for glass, it has found its way into my artistic expressions, becoming a physical embodiment of the subjects' aura. The incorporation of glass further amplifies the concept of aura and energy, as it expands and transforms the space around it. The ethereal nature of glass echoes the metaphysical qualities and messages embedded within my artwork.

Each piece I create is crafted with the intention of honoring the energy, vitality, and interconnectedness that permeate our existence. I do this by placing a significant emphasis on these aspects for the viewer. Art has been my innate language for exploring and celebrating the intricate connections.

Get to know me more!

I really believe understanding and knowing the artist- makes you appreciate their art just a little bit more.

I try to open up each week and share about my life, experiences, plans & inspirations in my blog posts.