About the Artist
Jess Bell (b. 1983) draws inspiration from the ocean and coastal landscapes, subjects she has studied and observed throughout her life as a resident of Monmouth County, New Jersey. Growing up a short distance from the beach, she developed an early connection to water that continues to inform her work as a realist oil painter.
Bell is a self-taught artist who has worked professionally since 2019, first beginning her study of oil painting in 2004 while completing her education degree. She previously taught elementary school for over a decade and holds three teaching certifications along with a Master’s degree in Special Education from Monmouth University. After stepping away from teaching in 2017 to raise her children, she returned to painting and now maintains a daily studio practice.
Her work has been exhibited in juried exhibitions nationally and internationally and has received multiple awards for her realistic depictions of coastal scenes. She is a Resident Artist member of the Salmagundi Club and is represented by Main Street Gallery in Manasquan, New Jersey. Her paintings were featured in American Art Collector three times in the last few years. She was named a Top Finalist in the 15th Annual PleinAir Salon Competition presented by PleinAir Magazine. Jess serves as Vice President of the American Artists Professional League and co-director of its Grand National Exhibition, and previously served as the organization’s Fundraising Director.
At the opening reception for Monmouth Museum’s 45th Annual Juried Art Exhibition with her painting, 'August Rolling Waves'.
Follow her on Instagram to see her current work and process.