Born in Chicago and now based in Phoenix, Jacquelyn Peterlin, also known as Jacqs, is a self-taught, freehand painter whose journey began humbly—painting on the floor of her bedroom. What started as a raw outlet of curiosity has since grown into an eclectic and ever-evolving body of work spanning surrealism, abstract, and expressionism.

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Drawing inspiration from daily life, music, film, and the imagery of her dreams, Jacqs creates paintings that balance an urban edge with an elevated sensibility. Bold colors and strong black outlines have become signature elements, giving the work both rhythm and intensity. Each piece unfolds instinctively, guided more by feeling than by rigid design, embodying the spontaneity of the freehand process.

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At the core of Jacqs’s practice is a philosophy that resists overcomplication: life isn’t meant to be so serious—so indulge in whatever you love. Through this lens, the art becomes both playful and intentional, inviting viewers to find freedom in expression and joy in simplicity.