Jennifer Zingg

I was given a box of gourds years ago by my grandfather.  He had grown them in his garden and had given them to me while I was studying art in college.  It was nearly ten years later before I would open the box, releasing the magic of gourds into my life.  Since then, I have learned a lot about gourds; how to grow them, how to clean them and how they offer endless possibilities as a sculptural art medium.  I am fascinated by the significance of the gourd in mythology and folklore from cultures around the world.  I am deeply inspired by African art and the ancient stories and creation myths that depict the gourd as a life force with connections to fertility, birth and magic.  Gourds are ancient, natural objects that have been used by humans in all corners of the world as tools, talismans, and art objects for centuries.  I am always amazed by the transformation of the gourds I grow; from humble gourd on the vine to beautiful works of art.

I am a juried member of the Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft, Kentucky Crafted, The Southern Arts Federation, The Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen, The Capital Area Art Guild and the Kentucky Gourd Society.

I am also a 2005 recipient of the Kentucky Foundation for Women Artist Enrichment Grant.

My work has received numerous honors and recognition including the Exhibitors Choice Award at Kentucky Crafted: The Market 2008, second place Francisco’s Farm 2008, and the 2008 Best of Kentucky Award at the Woodland Art Fair. My work has been featured twice on HGTV and is sold nationally in galleries in Kentucky, Arizona, Missouri and Ohio.

I reside in Frankfort, Kentucky with my husband Jeff and our two sons, Logan and Ben.  I teach art part-time at Good Shepherd School in Frankfort and also own and operate Jennifer Zingg Studio and Gallery at 210 Broadway in downtown Frankfort.  Aside from creating and selling my work at the studio, I offer a wide range of children’s art classes after school. Please visit my Web site to learn more.