From Apprentice to Instructor, Get to Know Jewel Branch

I am Jewel Tiara Branch, a 23 year old collagist from Baltimore, MD. I first volunteered with BYA as a studio apprentice back in 2020 and had the privilege to come back this year as an instructor!

What medium/s of art do you practice?

I am primarily a collage artist but I also paint, write, draw and make jewelry.

What made you interested in art originally?

I like to tell people that I came out of the womb with a crayon in my hand. I have been making art my entire life. it came to me instinctually. when words fail to register, my art speaks for me. I think I am especially drawn to it as a manifestation of a feeling or idea brought into the physical world…I feel that creating is truly an act of love.

Artwork by Jewel, currently available on her website artbyjeweltiara.bigcartel.com.

What has it been like transitioning from an apprentice to an instructor at BYA?

For me, the transition was simple. As an apprentice, we were given opportunities to lead conversations, instruct material, connect with each other and much more, which were all skills I later used as an instructor. I felt fully supported from the BYA staff as well, which is always an incredible feeling.

What brought you back to BYA?

I wanted to express my gratitude for the program and staff by giving back to them. I feel passionately about supporting our youth and uplifting our communities so I wanted to assist in creating a safe space for the students to express themselves and flourish in their creativity. For me, BYA felt like the perfect place to do so.

What are your future goals/plans - related or unrelated to art?

My ultimate goal is to travel the world making and sharing my art. For someone to look at my art and feel seen or inspired to make their own would be a dream come true. But honestly, just waking up and having the means to express myself is such a privilege that I feel that I am already living the dream! Just making art that I love is all I could ask for.

Where can people support/follow you?

My instagram @jeweltiarab is both a personal page and an art page (sometimes I have it on private, but don’t let this deter you- feel free to message me on there!) I also sell prints and posters on my website artbyjeweltiara.bigcartel.com. Lastly, I can be reached via email - jeweltiarab@gmail.com. I greatly appreciate the support! ❤️