Jen Mann is a visual artist living and working in Toronto, ON. Her latest body of work is an “extremely personal look at questions and answers with myself.”  Her show, Q&A, opens this Thursday night at Neubacher Schor Gallery (7 Brock Ave.).

What spaces in Toronto do you find inspiring?

Places that make me feel good, like Toronto Islands, and Trinity Bellwoods park. Especially in the summer. In the winter being outside is harder though.

What aisle do you spend the most time in at the grocery store?

Either fruits and veggies or the aisle with cookies.

Which virtue do you try to cultivate within yourself?

Probably acceptance. Sometimes just accepting things that are out of my control can help allow me to move past obstacles, and work with them instead of being frustrated that things aren’t exactly the way I imagined. This applies to all aspects of work and life. I think it’s what I most struggle with, and what I try to work on most.

The receipts in your wallet would indicate what?

That I spend my food money on art supplies.

If you could reinvent your career and be something totally different, what would that be?

I ‘m not even sure. I think I’d still be an artist, I would do a couple things differently tho.

When you dream about travel, what place in the world comes to mind?

Iceland.

What makes you happy?

It’s hard to pick just a couple things. I’m a pretty happy person most of the time.

What makes you cringe?

Tacky self praise. And awkward moments.

What quality do you loathe most in others?

Boasting – and sore winners.

What, in your opinion, is overrated?

Anything other than original poutine.

How do you feel about life at this moment?

Pretty good. Nervous and excited about my show.

What quality do you value most in a lover?

Wow. Haha, um haha… I’ll leave that a mystery.

What is your favourite thing to do on a Saturday?
Saturday is no different than any other day. Yoga, painting, listening to some good tunes, beers with friends at the studio. That sounds like a good day.

What is your comfort food?
Minestrone soup, grilled cheese and a pickle.

What word holds deep meaning for you?
I am very indecisive. I really don’t know.

 

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