#sparkchamber 090417 Jennifer Kelliher
Today’s #sparkchamber features designer and landscape architect Jennifer Kelliher. Jennifer began her career in historic landscape architecture, working in the National Park Service to protect landscapes and landscape structures in a variety of the parks. Looking to broaden her experience and get out of her comfort zone, she moved to China. After a few years on the other side of the world, she was ready for something new. Inspired by the rich historic architecture of Chicago, she chose to make that her home. A long way from the national parks, Jennifer’s work these days is primarily focused on projects in the urban environment — amenity decks, plazas, streetscapes.
The through-line of all her experiences is connection to environment. Her passion is to make an impact on people's daily lives through their environments. [Inspiration: concept landscape, and Travis Ward Horticulture.]
Interesting analogy: Jennifer has recently been getting into Olympic lifts: “I find it fascinating that, to the viewer, it seems weightlifters are merely lifting the barbell above their heads; but in reality, they are manipulating their bodies around the bar.” [Hookgrip really highlights this manipulation.] ”Similarly in design, the designer manipulates everyday elements to create new art whose process may not seem as intricate to the viewer.“
One more little tidbit — Jennifer is a rugby player!
1.] Where do ideas come from?
Ideas emerge when you trust your inner voice to put them into realization. They are a culmination of solving problems and using inspiration from all of one’s life experiences.
2.] What is the itch you are scratching?
My creative itch is my daily sketchbook. n the morning, I like to dig deep to do quick and dirty creative sketches. The subject is unlimited, and it's a nice warm-up to prep for the day.
3.] Early bird or night owl, tortoise or hare?
Early bird, hare.
4.] How do you know when you are done?
Deadlines are a blessing and a curse. I never have the feeling of being done, but typically the project is done after pushing the deadline for just a little longer.