Dea Jenkins
I first met Dea in Pasadena when she began her graduate studies at Fuller Seminary. Involved in various types of arts, Dea offered brilliant insight into theology and artistic expression, both from the perspective of a scholar and practitioner. A Fujimura Fellow, Dea’s work focuses on questions on spirituality, collective consciousness, and social healing. Her master’s thesis performance, Black Halos, a personal exploration on skin, beauty, and cultural expectations, was featured in several cities throughout California including Oakland and San Diego. Dea’s work inspires peace, groundness, and love for self as it challenges us to move into the space of deep reflection of the lies we hold onto regarding who we are. Check out more about Dea below.
Dea Jenkins , Artist, Writer, Curator
Tell us who you are!
I am an interdisciplinary artist, writer, and curator originally from Houston, Texas. My family and I began moving cross-country when I was 10 years old, and I have lived in seven states and numerous cities since then. I didn’t begin my journey with the arts until I moved back to Houston from Chantilly, Virginia after graduating high school. Through a series of life twists, including deciding not to pursue a career as a professional track runner, I “accidentally” discovered an interest and a talent for art making. As I discovered the world of painting, drawing, and graphic design, I ultimately chose to pursue an undergraduate degree in filmmaking from The Art Institute of Houston. Filmmaking taught me the value of producing. As a producer I discovered that I could create spaces to share my own work, but also generate opportunities for other creative minds to journey with me on these projects. In 2017, I moved to Pasadena, California to pursue a dual masters degree in Theology and Intercultural Studies. My emphasis in Theology and the Arts has grounded my artistic practice, helped me connect my film studies with theology, and prepared me to continue creating spaces for individual and collective healing.
What inspires you?
I admire any mainstream creative who has managed to own his/her own brand. Jay Z, Oprah, and Tyler Perry are public figures who readily come to mind. Creatively, I am usually drawn to installation artists who incorporate performance in their work. I am currently exploring works by Theaster Gates and Takesada Matsutani.
What are one or two lessons you carry with you each day?
"Don't worry, about a thing. 'Cause every little thing, is gonna be alright." Bob Marley
What are you working on?
I am working on several projects, many of which I'll be able to share with the public soon! As an artist and researcher, I am asking a lot of questions about materiality, race, bodies, structures, and inherent meanings within them all. I think the moment the world is in is filled with tension, because we are dealing with so much that has rested beneath the surface of our daily realities for many years. Even though a lot is surfacing now, we still have a long way to go in excavating the hidden realities that support our social structures. My work is about uncovering those realities and creating pathways for social healing.
How do you connect spirituality/religion in your work?
Spirituality informs every aspect of my work. The gift of an artist is to have the ability to hear the voice of the Creator in every act of making. It is my job to listen closely for what the Spirit desires to create, and to be available throughout the creative process to help the seeds of an idea grow into fruition.
What is your favorite place you’ve visited and why?
Brazil was the first country I visited outside of the United States. My memories are filled with the beauty of the people, the landscape, the food... I've only been once, but the trip has never left me.