Inspired by the native flora and fauna of Venango County, the art business Jae Austen Art was officially kicked off last summer. Skylar Austin, the solo artist in charge, has begun integrating into the local art community by participating in public art projects.
She is a multimedia artist, dabbling in all kinds of art crafts, including but not limited to crafts like painting, sewing, printmaking, sculpting and weaving. You’ve probably seen projects she’s collaborated on during visits through Oil City, such as the most recent mural on the library steps, and the freshly painted faces of the Christmas Cutouts that were placed around town.
Jae Austen Art was accepted into the ACRE program (Alliance for Creative Rural Economies) along with other local artists. This will help the newly created business learn what it needs to grow in finances and marketing, which will aid in creating an engaging and positive impact on the community.
“I want my art to encourage people to fully appreciate the nature that surrounds them in our city, trails and parks. The aim is for that appreciation to lead to conservation, and a desire to protect what makes this area special,” said Austin.
In regards to the new year, Austin plans for Jae Austen Art to continue growing by making even more art and furthering involvement in the community. In the future, she hopes to be able to put together a gallery exhibit of her artwork.
