On Thursday, Oct. 9, The First Coast Cultural Center opened a new exhibit featuring the work of local artist, Jami Childers. You can see her art on display now through Jan. 2.
Tell us about your artwork. What inspires you?
My work is bright by nature — in both color and spirit. I paint as a celebration of the natural world and the emotional connections we form with it. Living in Florida means I’m surrounded by constant inspiration: vivid birds, lush foliage and sunlight that shifts like mood. I’m especially drawn to moments of wonder and stillness — a roseate spoonbill lifting off the water at dawn, the layered petals of a flower, golden light filtering through Spanish moss.
My style blends realism with expressive movement. I love using transparent layers and energetic brushwork that allow the underpainting to glow through. Ultimately, I want my paintings to be a place of pause — an invitation for viewers to step inside, breathe and find their own story within the scene. Art, to me, is a bridge between nature, people and the quiet magic woven into everyday life.
Tell us about your journey as an artist. What first sparked your interest?
Art has been my first language for as long as I can remember. As a child, I was mesmerized by color, texture and the way light could make something ordinary feel sacred. That fascination never left.
Over time, my passion deepened through exploring Florida’s wild spaces and finding support within a creative community. But at its core, what keeps me painting is the act of truly seeing — of slowing down enough to notice beauty. Every painting is a love letter to that way of looking at the world. It’s my way of saying, “Come closer. Isn’t this beautiful?”
What is your artistic process like?
Two years ago, I stopped saying I don’t have time and decided to make time. No more excuses, I committed! I sold the salon I owned for over 20 years to my longtime coworker and friend, Jerri, so I could pursue my art more fully. I needed a body of work for festivals so I had to get to work. At 4:30 a.m. I grab my coffee and head into the studio, because I don’t wait for inspiration to strike — I go where it knows where to find me.
I usually paint for a couple of hours before getting ready for my part-time job at the hair salon.
In the studio, I review works in progress, mix fresh colors and lose myself in the rhythm of brushstrokes. I balance creative flow with the practical side of an art career — updating my Instagram (@Jami_Childers_Art), connecting with collectors and fellow artists, and tending to the business side of things. On weekends, I recharge outdoors so I can return to the studio filled with fresh energy. Every day looks different, but each one is rooted in gratitude for the chance to create.
Tell us about the work currently on display. What inspired it, and what mediums did you use?
The pieces currently on display come from my ongoing series exploring Florida’s birdlife and botanical abundance. Many of the scenes were sparked by early-morning walks through wetlands, gardens and even the St. Augustine Alligator Farm, where birds gather to nest and raise their young.
I primarily work in acrylics and oils. My process often begins with watercolor pencil sketches softened with acrylic medium. From there, I build transparent layers of paint so the underpainting subtly shines through. Lately, I’ve been experimenting with abstract backgrounds and allowing fragments to remain visible in the final image. I use the same approach in my collage work—letting each piece reveal itself, rather than forcing it. Every painting begins with intention but ends in discovery.
How do you like to spend your free time?
When I’m not painting, I’m usually outside — on my paddle board, exploring Florida’s parks and waterways, or spending time in my garden. Time in nature refuels me and reminds me why I paint.
Just as important to me is spending time with my family. Whether we’re sharing a meal or simply sitting together without distractions, those moments ground me. They remind me that while art is my calling, love and connection are my foundation. I also enjoy visiting galleries, reading about art and nature — anything that keeps me inspired, engaged and grateful.
What’s next for you and your art?
I’m excited to continue expanding my Florida wildlife series, with plans for a solo exhibition focusing on the relationship between native birds and their habitats. I also feel called to help other artists connect with nature and make time for their creative practice — just as I did.
Artist residencies are becoming an important part of my journey. I recently spent a beautiful week at Lake Jocassee through South Carolina State Parks, and I’m eager for more immersive experiences like that — places where I can absorb new landscapes and explore new techniques.
I am also interested in learning more about conservation-focused community projects, it’s important for me to understand the animals and the landscape that we share and to learn how we can leave things better than how we found it. We can all be Bright by Nature!
