Jessi Barquero

When and why did you start painting? 

So, let’s get started! My name is Jessika Barquero and I’m 46 years young. I’m from San Jose, the Capital of Costa Rica. I started painting as a child and now, as long as I can remember. As many children do, I began to first start to draw in crayon. In kindergarten, at 5 years old, my teacher used to give me the task to make some art for school art exhibitions and I remember enjoying that so much. It was exciting to be asked by the teacher at such a young age. 

What inspires you?

As long as I can remember, art has been my passion my entire life. I would have to say that my inspiration comes from the wonders of nature and the beauties in it. I enjoy the outdoors and the creatures that are in it. From the beaches to the volcanoes to the rainforests, the world is filled with amazing creatures that capture my creativity.  

What is your favourite painting technique?

Although I enjoy many mediums, my favorite painting technique is watercolor. I love how unpredictable, dynamic, and creative the result is depending on the quantity and ratio of pigments and water that is used and all of the possibilities that brings. Adapting and ‘thinking on your creative feet’ is part of the joy of this artform. 

What are your experiences with social media? 

Fortunately, my experience with Social Media is quite extensive and I have posted for many years. “Sopa de Letras Caligrafia” started serendipitously and I created my Instagram page without expectations, only for fun for my family and friends. All of a sudden, it has become a second business for me. My official profession is dentistry and my degree and I’ve been practicing it for 17 years now.  Art stores began to ask me to give workshops for them and the response was amazing. Social Media has given me the opportunity to connect with people from all over the world and to express myself through art.  

Your favourite KUM brush is?

All KUM brushes are amazing, but my favorite one is the French Aqua. I find that its softness and the amount of water and pigment that it can hold makes it perfect for watercolor painting.  

Imagine you are Aladdin and you have three wishes:

If I were Aladdin and I had 3 wishes, they would be: 

Wish One: I would build a rescue center for dogs and cats in my country in order to give strays a home and the life they all deserve. I have a great passion for animals and I would use my first wish for this.  

Wish Two: My Grandfather was a very influential person in my life who shaped who I am today and we bonded closely during our time together. I would love to bring my Grandpa back to life for one day to share a beautiful summer day and hug him and tell him how much I miss him.   

Wish Three: Teleport myself all over the world and have the ability to meet all these beautiful, talented and gifted people I’ve met in this art community.