"Find the joy in it and be ready for the parts that some days are not just fun."

CMA's end-of-year artwork sale raises essential funds for free arts education in NYC schools whose arts programs have been decimated by recent budget cuts.

These works – starting at $100 – have been generously donated by celebrated artists who uphold our belief that all children are artists deserving of the materials, access, and encouragement to allow their creativity to soar. 

Below, meet contributing artist Jennefer Hoffman.

Jennefer as a young artist

Artwork by Jennefer’s daughter Apollonia, age 13

Artwork by Jennefer’s son Dean, age 3, on the occasion of his sister’s birth

Do you have a favorite memory of making art as a child?

I grew up in Canada and I remember loving getting a new huge drawing pad. They were called “BIG” and I remember drawing Snoopy and Garfield and other cartoon characters with friends using magic markers that smelled like black licorice and lemons

What advice would you give to young artists who wish to pursue an art practice?

There is no “right” way. I am a self-taught sculptor so there are many ways to learn and make, however it is a job like any other. I learned that late. Find the joy in it and be ready for the parts that some days are not just fun.

How does working with children inspire you?

Children for the most part, if uninfluenced, say it like it is and draw it like it is. I find children get the “artist” part and we often teach the technical part that can sometimes squash the “artist” part away.

When did you first know you were going to be an artist?

I don't think I ever knew. In fact, I still question it all the time. 

Can you describe a formative experience visiting a museum or gallery?

Getting into school in NYC in 1993 and seeing an Anselm Kiefer show in Soho and an Agnes Martin show, never having heard of either of them, and feeling I wanted to do what they do.

Jennefer Hoffman 

growing 

light stoneware and brown stoneware with slip

Buy Now