Meet the Artist: Q&A with Jen Tucker, Our Studio’s Floral Soul

If you have ever walked past A Little Bite Studio in Wentworth Point, you may have noticed a beautiful burst of colour in our front window. Vibrant flowers stretch across canvas, and whimsical pet portraits seem to smile right back at you. These are the creations of Jen Tucker, the artist who shares our studio space and brings so much light and joy into our creative home.

Jen’s artwork has quickly become a much-loved part of the Wentworth Point community. Locals stop to admire her work in the window, and many of the children attending our classes pause in quiet wonder, inspired by what they see. It has been such a gift to have a working artist painting among us. Jen’s journey is a reminder of the magic that happens when you follow your creative calling.

We recently sat down with Jen to learn more about her story, her art, and what inspires her each day.

Tell us a little about yourself
My name is Jen and I am 58 years old. I was born in Victoria and moved to Sydney when I was 10. I have always loved drawing and painting. As a child, art was my favourite subject at school and I kept creating into my young adult years.

How did painting become such a big part of your life again?
During COVID, I started painting more regularly and it completely reignited my passion. I realised how much I had missed it. Since then, I have not looked back.

What kind of art do you create?
I paint big, vibrant flowers that bring me so much joy. I also run Paint and Sip sessions for adults where I teach people how to paint their pets. It is always a fun and relaxed experience.

What materials do you use?
I began with acrylics and used a gloss medium for texture. These days I mostly use oil paints. I love their creamy texture and how beautifully they blend.

What inspires your work?
Nature is my biggest inspiration. I find ideas from flower markets, gardens in my neighbourhood, trees, and plants. There is beauty everywhere when you take the time to look.

Can you describe your painting process?
I start by finding a subject that inspires me and take lots of photos. I choose one and create a colour palette to match. I then use a projector to transfer the image onto a large canvas and slowly begin painting, adding depth and detail with each layer.

Do you have a favourite painting?
Yes. A large painting of pink peonies. It means so much to me because I never thought I could create something so beautiful. It made me feel really proud of what I could do.

If you were a colour, what would you be?
Definitely pink. It feels happy and pretty, and it brings me joy.

What challenges have you faced on your creative path?
The biggest challenge has been finding time while working full-time. Eventually, I decided to move to part-time work so I could dedicate more energy to my art. It was a big shift, but one I am so glad I made.

What advice would you give to young or emerging artists?
Keep creating every day. Even a small sketch or doodle keeps the creativity flowing. Try new materials. And do not be afraid to make mistakes. That is where real learning and growth happen.

What are you currently working on?
I am preparing for the Affordable Art Fair in November. I will be represented by a gallery which is very exciting.

Jen’s story is such a beautiful example of rediscovering joy and creativity later in life. Her paintings brighten our studio in Wentworth Point, and her presence has become a quiet source of inspiration for both children and adults alike. You can see more of Jen’s artwork on Instagram at @_jentuckerart and @pinotpetcasso.

At A Little Bite Studio, we believe in the power of creative community. Our kids art classes in Wentworth Point are more than just lessons. They are nurturing spaces where children are encouraged to explore, express and grow through hands-on creativity. Being surrounded by working artists like Jen helps spark real-world inspiration that our young artists carry into their own work.

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