Jill Soukup, Bull Massive, oil, 44 x 56.
How has your work evolved in recent years? I used to paint more cityscapes, but lately my work has shifted primarily to western and horse themes. Also, I’ve been digging deeper into understanding value and drawing, which has made my paintings richer.
Where do you find inspiration? My inspiration comes from various sources, including visits to Ranchlands (a working ranch in Colorado Springs and Mosca, CO) as well as drawing and observing natural objects.
What do you hope to accomplish in the next few years? I hope to have a few themed shows based on specific concepts that I’ve been pursuing. I can’t say what those are yet, though!
People would be surprised to learn that… I’ve never had a horse.
If your home or studio was on fire, what one thing would you save? My collection of animal skulls.
How has the pandemic changed your art habits over the past year? Luckily, not much. I’m a homebody, so it hasn’t been all that different. But I’ve had more connection with a broader range of art enthusiasts because of the increased virtual capabilities—more than I could do otherwise—and that’s been very rewarding.
What would you be if you weren’t an artist? Things of a metaphysical nature have always been of interest to me: dreams, consciousness, the transcendent. So I’d see if I could tap into something along those lines.
Favorite non-art-related thing to do? Hang with my family.
What galleries represent your work? Astoria Fine Art, Jackson, WY; Gallery 1261, Denver, CO; Nedra Matteucci Galleries, Santa Fe, NM; Oh Be Joyful Gallery, Crested Butte, CO.
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- Jill Soukup, White Horse Rhythms, oil, 36 x 40.
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- Jill Soukup, Chuck Wagon Race, oil, 9 x 12.
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- Jill Soukup, Trickling Faces, oil, 30 x 22.
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- Jill Soukup, Bones & Trace, oil, 40 x 30.
This story appeared in the May 2021 issue of Southwest Art magazine.