Meeting new people always brings a sense of excitement and surprise; I never know what to expect, and often, it goes beyond anything I could imagine. This time, I discovered a multi-talented artist, Jen Kroeger, a visual artist specializing in bright, fresh abstract landscapes, and an incredible art studio she runs—SRQ East Art Studios (aka SEAS). This vibrant collective brings together unique talents under one roof, each artist offering a unique perspective. So today, let me introduce you to Jen’s inspiring journey as an artist and the dynamic community she’s fostering at SEAS.
Jen Kroeger’s path as an artist began early, and she was influenced by her grandfather, who nurtured her natural curiosity and talent. Art remained a constant companion throughout her school years, leading her to pursue a degree in apparel product development and later work in the fashion and toy design industries. During the lockdown, Jen reconnected with art, reigniting a passion that had always existed but often took a back seat to her career.
Her unique style quickly gained attention, earning her a spot as an emerging artist at the Florida Craft Art Festival. As her artistic journey continued, Jen felt drawn towards painting, a medium previously explored only through small watercolors and illustrations. Working with acrylics, she discovered a love for layering textures—using watercolor, pastels, fabric, and paper to create deeply textured, abstract landscapes. These paintings reflect her present experiences, like the bright sunsets over Venice Beach, while weaving in memories and emotions from her past. You can view her work and learn more about her journey on her website (https://www.jenkroeger.com/).
Originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Jen and her family moved to Sarasota in 2012, drawn by the beaches and warmer climate. The flexibility of her work as a graphic designer allowed them to settle first on Anna Maria Island and then in Sarasota. In her abstract art, Jen intuitively translates memories and feelings onto the canvas, guided by color and inspired by present landscapes and nostalgia. She starts with a color, often a shade that resonates with a memory, and builds on it, balancing shapes and hues to create harmony. This process is almost meditative, a space where she channels joy, lightness, and vibrancy.
A morning person, Jen often rises early, her mind buzzing with ideas for her next painting. Her creative routine is accompanied by music—anything from upbeat pop to indie rock—or by podcasts on art, fueling her inspiration. When she needs a break, she turns to nature, especially the beach, where the waves and sand offer a refreshing, meditative escape.
Jen’s favorite color, a bold hot magenta, stems from childhood memories—it was a standout crayon in her grandmother’s collection. She gravitates toward vibrant tones, blending fluorescent hues with traditional colors to create a distinct pop on her canvases.
About a year ago, Jen opened SRQ East Art Studios (SEAS), inspired by her experiences in
art studios in Milwaukee. The studio, part of a creative community under the Sarasota Studio Artists Association, hosts 11 artists, each with a unique style. Jen’s studio offers exhibitions, workshops, and open studio events where local artists collaborate and share their work with the public. Recent projects include a skateboard exhibit co-organized by Jen, starting in the studio gallery and traveling to Calusa Brewing Company to highlight Sarasota’s dynamic art scene.
Visit https://www.srqeast.com/ for information on upcoming workshops, exhibitions, and community events. The space is open by appointment and during Open Studios on the second Saturday of each month. The website's calendar also has a full SEAS classes and events schedule. Fluid Acrylic Classes by the artist Lisa Broadbent are currently available and can be booked through her website, lisaflywallart.com.
In addition to managing her art business, Jen is represented by Define Art Gallery (https://www.definegallery.com/) and actively participates in exhibitions. She balances painting with administrative tasks, social media, and client communication. Despite the demands, she loves her studio's creative and collaborative environment, where each artist brings something unique, and every piece tells a story.
Photos: Jens's artwork
and iruphotos.com
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