Please tell us your artistic vita in a few sentences.
I am a photographer, filmmaker and experiential designer exploring religious and romantic entrapment, using meticulously crafted worlds to connect with the neglected inner child. My award-winning short films, including Trauma Bond, and my photographs in hand crafted sets evoke emotional healing through catharsis and play. I am the founder of Finding Bright Studios and the executive director of the Arlington International Film Festival, where we work to foster community and support other artists. My current projects include an upcoming immersive exhibit, a book of archival photographs that is a celebration of youth culture and several narrative films.
Was there a pivotal moment when you decided to follow your passion?
During the very snowy winter in 2011 I snuck out of my parents house, camera slung over my shoulder, to hang out in someone's basement. There was magic in the air as I photographed these soon-to-be-friends. I thought “maybe I could be a photographer” and never looked back.
Can you tell us about the process of making your work?
All of my work starts with a memory or an emotion that I want out of my body and into the world. My photographs begin with a rough doodle in my sketchbook. I revisit the sketch over a few weeks until the idea is big enough to bring to the studio. Sometimes the idea never fully forms on the page, which is usually a sign that I need to start working on it in 3D space to figure it out. The material I feature in my work is heavy emotionally so I look for ideas that feel fun to execute. Tactile, playful, silly, colorful. My studio is full of toys so when in doubt I just start to play and usually, the rest follows.
What does art mean to you personally? Is there a goal you're trying to accomplish?
I am working, always, to define myself. Even now I feel like a mystery to myself, which some days is exciting and others is strange. I feel like an archaeologist - digging around feelings and memories in the studio to see what materializes.
I also hope to sew connection. When I was young I felt so isolated in the way I experienced the world. Growing up and realizing that others felt the way I did was a balm - but it came so late. I hope my work reaches the people who need it, who say ‘oh yeah, she feels like me,’ and gives them some comfort.
What is your favorite museum or art gallery and why?
When the Abigail Ogilvy Gallery was in Boston I discovered so many incredible artists there. Abakus Projects is a great gallery too, always showing incredible photography.
If you could be born in another period of history, when would it be?
I was born in ‘93 but really wish I could’ve experienced more of the 90’s. I think it must’ve been the best time to grow up - technology was see-thru, gadgets still existed and physical media was the only way to go.
Do you have a favourite photograph or painting, which inspires you?
Nan Goldin’s self portrait ‘Nan One Month After Being Battered’ is always with me. She is so brave, bold and unflinching in that portrait.
What are your plans for 2025?
I will be releasing The Impostor Syndrome, a limited series I co-wrote with Wednesday Klevisha of Martian Radio Theatre this spring. bI’ll follow that by filming my third short film, Actualization in the summer.
The Arlington International Film Festival is slated to have a wonderful year as we grow and expand our offerings and reach out to new communities.
Above all, I plan to show up to the studio regularly, even when I don’t feel like it, to keep challenging myself to make new art.
Thank you, Jaina! We're thrilled to represent your art this year!
Link to Jaina's HAZEGALLERY profile