All images courtesy of artist Jaime Curtismith.

Name:

Jamie Curtismith 

Hometown: 

Goldbar

Current City/Neighborhood: 

Everett

Your Medium/Craft:

Writing-Arting

How did you first get started in your craft?

I wasn’t that kind of person who went through life then at some point along the way discovered I was creative, artistically inclined, or talented. I was born into a family of artisans and intergenerational crafters, so I was predisposed and nurtured to develop a creative outlet.

Favorite Artist(s) and/or Inspirations?

My favorite artists, or those who inspire me the most, are ones I collaborate with locally:

Alice Curtis (my mother) for her natural artistic genius and mastery of fabric art

Noah Smith (my son) for his unparalleled artistic talent, a passion for self-exploration through art, and a deep admiration for his huge social media following

Tatum Smith (my daughter) for how she views reality through her artist eye captured in her photography

Natasha Nelson for her raw stylistic edginess

Duane Kirby Jensen for his prolifically consistent productivity in both his visual and poetic craft

Genevieve Heuer for her doodles and brave exploration of mediums

Steven Leyba Johnson for his large scale collage work and unfettered quest toward the essence of humanity

Michael Bell for his mastery of color and composition

H-Type for his large-scale mural work and passion for bringing the essence of urban graffiti work into galleries

I also have great admiration for the artists who show at the Schack Art Center, which provides a steady stream of inspiration for my craft.

Favorite Piece You've Created?

“Twins” with H-Type.

What’s the most challenging part of being an artist, or something you had to overcome?

The most challenging idea I’ve had to overcome is that I was somehow not qualified to share my work. I didn’t go to art school. I don’t have the culturally approved pedigree. And most of the time, I don’t even really know what I’m doing. 

But someone once gave me a laminated card with my name on it that said “Creative License” so that if I ever felt like I lacked the proper credentials (whatever those are), I could whip out my license. 

Anytime I feel insecure, I think of that license, then go on creating anyway despite my apprehensions. The world needs creative people. Our culture needs artists. And artists need validation (and money).

How can people be supportive of the arts?

See above.

Favorite place in Everett to hang?

The Everett Public Library, now that it’s back open, JAG Artworks, and Zamarama Gallery

Where can people purchase or see more of your art?

I’m currently showing through June 2021 at:

Café Zippy (1502 Rucker, Everett, WA 98201) - solo show

JAG Artworks (2940 Colby, Everett, WA 98201) - group show

Burkhead Art Gallery (21416 95th St SW, Snohomish, WA 98290) - group show

Upcoming Shows:

June 27th: Monroe Pride (Sky River Park, Monroe)

August-September: Zamarama Gallery (2936 Colby, Everett)-Solo Show

August 19th: Everett Art Walk Artist Reception and Pop-Up Art Walk (On Colby in front of JAG and Zama)

August 20-22nd: Fresh Paint (Everett Marina)

How to contact me:

My website, Facebook, Instagram, Email  or by Phone.

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