Enjoy the delightful portfolio of artist Sarah Jean Holt, who creates complex stippled pen and ink drawings. See more of her art on her website.
“Business T Rex” pen & ink, 16″ x 20″
I grew up in the very average suburbs of a very average time. My childhood was a happy one, filled with crayons and sidewalk chalk. I was always encouraged to be creative, and always supported in my artistic endeavors.
“Date Night” pen & ink, 16″ x 20″
I did not, however, figure out how deeply important the artistic outlet was to me until my early thirties. It was then that I realized art was where my heart was. It was where my joy and calm resided. I jumped into this beautiful world and haven’t looked back.
“Cirque Du Flea” pen & ink, 20″ x 16″
As a self-taught artist, it was very important to me to create something that could be enjoyed by all. I wanted to share illustrations that tickled the fancy of the public, and produce something that would hang proudly in offices and living rooms.
“Surf n Turf” pen & ink, 20″ x 16″
I am one of the few artists that find absolute joy in the stipple technique.
“Curiouser & Curiouser” pen & ink, 11″ x 14″
Stipple, for those who are not familiar with this term, is the use of dots to create an image—it is literally the drawing of one tiny dot at a time.
“Why Not” pen & ink, 14″ x 11″
I love this time-intensive, detail-oriented work. The texture and depth never fails to fascinate me. My technique has changed over the years, and I’ve learned a few tricks of the trade, but I’ve never strayed from the use of dots.
“Four Elements” pen & ink, 8″ x 44″
My source of inspiration isn’t soul rending or profound. It is simply notions or ideas that pique my sense of humor or a concept that I can spin and twist and play with.
“Little Rebels” pen & ink, 20″ x 16″
My subject matter ranges from elegant barn owls to tattooed manatees. I have completed an Alice in Wonderland themed series, a Star Wars tribute and played with Steampunk elements. Most of my work is centered on nature and its animals. I try to convey personality and emotion as well as my own brand of quirky humor.
“Shermann” pen & ink, 14″ x 11″
About a year ago, a sweet woman came to visit my booth at an arts festival. She approached me after spending quite some time looking at my work. Emotional and a bit teary, she asked if she could hug me and said that the world needed more of what I created. She spoke of whimsy and magic and thanked me for my time and what she considered bravery in showing my work.
“Heinrich” pen & ink, 14″ x 11″
This was the most profound and emotional moment that I have experienced as an artist. I was so completely touched by her reaction. I’ll always remember her words and response to the illustrations I had pour so much of myself into. And I will forever strive to capture the whimsy and the magic that she saw in me.
Artist Sarah Jean Holt invites you to follow her on Instagram and Facebook.