Jilli finds her inspiration and peace in nature. The high desert has been her lifelong domain, first in CO, now in NM. Her current studio is at 7600’ in Sunshine Valley, at the foot of Ute Mountain and bordered to the east and west by the Sangre de Cristo Range and the Rio Grande Gorge. This landscape informs and gives shape to all of her work.
Other influences were study in Environmental Systems – geology, hydrology, biology and in Architecture where 3-dimensional composition, texture, surface, light and a better understanding of the human body in space were investigated. Architectural study also introduced the concepts of chaos and complexity theory and fractal geometries – which, to Jilli, essentially illustrate that we (human beings and all of nature) are intricately connected across time and space. Those connections hold her interest as an artist and maker.
Residency Program:
Ute Mountain Studios is the Questa Art Tour’s northernmost stop. Jilli’s studio is here along with a residency program offered to young women artists. Thus far, Lynnette Haozous (@lhaozous), April Holder (@aeon_fluxus), Madeline Miller and Jai Schmidt (@strangebrainz) have each had a residency here for about a year’s time.
The intention is to provide artists relief from the expense of housing and studio space so they can focus on their work in a safe and inspiring place for an extended period of time. The artists direct their own work and experience while Jilli offers what resources and support she can at their request. Please email Jilli at jmkamas@gmail with inquiries about this program.
