Born in the agricultural landscape of Upstate New York in 1980, artist Jennifer Shaw grew up the eldest of six children in the small town of Rodman. Her close-knit family ties helped build the confidence that is needed to visually explore and render the world around and expand a young imagination. Always fond of wildlife, she cared for many domestic and exotic animals. Raised in a house set in the vast rolling hills, she looked forward to summer when the tundra exploded with plant and animal life. This reason is the inspiration for many of her rich and beautiful landscape paintings. Supported and encouraged by her high school art teacher, Mary Ellen Shevalier, she pursued higher education after graduating from South Jefferson High School in 1998.
Shaw went on to study at Pratt at Munson William Proctor Institute, where she earned an Associates in Fine Art and then continued her education at Syracuse University. Under the awesome influence of world-renown painter Professor Jerome Witkin, Shaw worked hard to earn the Junior Painting Award in 2001. She graduated from Syracuse with a BFA, majoring in Painting and graduating with academic honors in 2002. Shaw immediately moved to Phoenix, Arizona, in search of opportunity.
Determination soon landed her a job with the Phoenix Art Group, where she worked as designer “Stiles” for nearly six years. She produced decorative artwork for such companies as Ethan Allen, Cantoni, and New York Graphics Society. Motivated by her loving husband, Jonathon Shaw, Jennifer resigned in 2008 to continue painting as a self-employed artist. Arizona’s beautiful terrain has captivated her heart. Born a runner, she trains on the trails to compete in marathons nationwide, including Boston Marathon in 2008. The artist lives and works in Gilbert. She continues to grow both her business and her skills with the support of her husband, friends, and family. This priceless social support and feedback keep her motivated to improve in every area of her life.