Artist Program: Jamie Kushner Blicher
My name is Jamie Kushner Blicher and I am a self taught alcohol ink/mixed media artist. I’ve been creating almost exclusively on YUPO for the past 8 years. I’ve always been artistic and when I started my fertility Journey, which ended up being a long one, I used art to cope. Creating using sterile, IVF needles as a paintbrush on YUPO has been a lifeline in so many ways. I now paint for individuals and fertility centers all over the US to create joy, make beauty and move forward from pain.
What is your inspiration for creating?
My inspiration for creating, and has always been to cultivate community.
What is your go-to paper?
YUPO 20x26” and 26x40” 144lb.
What role does YUPO play in your artistic vision and how does it complement your style of work?
I love YUPO because it is forgiving and so much fun to play on. I am constantly drawn to creating abstract pieces that tells a story. YUPO allows me to experiment without worry of mistake, and makes the process just so much more fun and meaningful. I feel like other canvases on paper are more final and doesn’t allow space for fun.
What is your process like?
I typically put down alcohol, then alcohol inks, then alcohol in an IVF needle I then spread the ink using various heat tools, as well as the use of my own breath, working to control an uncontrollable medium like alcohol ink on YUPO. This is an obvious metaphor for Fertility journey, where you have a basic plan and then when things go right you get creative and then beauty comes out.
Can you share some tips or advice for artists looking to explore the potentials of YUPO?
Use all kinds of paint, mediums, different brushes, and different heat tools To explore the magical wonders of synthetic paper before deciding if you love it. YUPO has opened so many possibilities for me, and the best way to get my feelings out on a forgiving paper.
Can you talk about any challenges you’ve faced with YUPO and how you’ve overcome them?
I've experienced times when my hands or brush on the table have gotten onto the YUPO and other colors have rubbed off that have “ruined” my work. Thankfully YUPO is pretty stain-free and a bit of alcohol can fix the issue quickly.
Can you tell us about any upcoming pieces you’re excited about?
I am about to create several pieces of work for CRM fertility center in Miami. There will be 6 to 8 pieces up in the clinic and patients will be reminded how strong they are and how they are not alone going through infertility when they see the art.