NASSAU, BAHAMAS — With the country facing a difficult and uncertain time amid the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns forcing Bahamians to remain indoors, one artist seized the opportunity to create beauty out of ashes.
Jessica Miller, a primary school art teacher, said she used the downtime of the pandemic to launch a portrait painting business called “Art and Soul (Paint with Passion)”, where each moment is treasured and expressions are priceless.
“Since the pandemic started and the lockdowns, I’ve been inspired to pick back up my talent, hobby and skill in visual arts,” Miller said.
“I started a skillful, captivating yet well-known form of art as a hobby and now a newly developed business of portrait painting art. This features drawings and paintings of real-life persons on canvas, well known and locally in our communities.”
She added: “My business has since skyrocketed despite the pandemic and became established and successful with God’s help, hard work and dedication.
“It has since kept me positively inspired and constructively occupied. I’m also encouraged to make the most of my time doing what I love while letting my creative juices flow, inspiring others and enjoying what I do.
“I strive to continue my passion and pursuit in visual arts as a new female portrait artist and art educator even throughout the pandemic and now with a business under my belt, giving people hope and a smile for a better tomorrow.”
Miller noted art has always been a part of her life, as she enjoyed drawing and coloring from she was just seven years old.
As a high schooler, her artwork was recognized in the Central Bank Visual Awards, National Arts Festival, Finco Art Workshop Awards and National Post Office Art Awards.
She went on to graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Art Education from the then College of The Bahamas.
And now, Miller is a professional artist specializing in painting any and all portraits, including self-portraits, families, weddings, graduations and all manner of special occasions.
The artist wants to remind Bahamians that though times may be tough, “the global pandemic and emergency orders do not have to lockdown, close down or discourage our creative and innovative flow”.
“I truly believe that through God almighty my business was given birth to in such an uncertain and difficult time in our country,” Miller said.
“This is just the beginning of something beautiful and even greater to come.”
Miller can be reached by email at jessymiller03@hotmail.com or by phone at 242-432-6040.
