Jenny Fillius
NWDC is pleased to share the art and ideas of Jenny Fillius
The work I create comes from my imagination. Anything can trigger an idea, an overheard expression, a story, something I see on the street or the tin itself; literally anything. These ideas get sketched out and eventually end up as artwork in recycled tin, or more accurately recycled decorative sheet metal. The images I create are bold, colorful, and often humorous. By re-purposing used metal food containers, gleaned from many sources, deconstructing them to be reconfigured into something other than their original form or intent, it becomes artwork as a still life or a narrative piece.
I was born in California, lived in Mexico and after nearly dying in Seattle my commitment to tin work has never been more focused. — Jenny Fillius
How were you introduced to art?
I was born into a family of artists. Both grandparents were painters. Mother and father were artists working in mold making, wood, clay, stained glass, fashion/costumers and hats. Uncle Bill was a fine woodworker.
Where do you find inspiration when creating new work?
Mostly from the tin of my brain. I keep a sketchbook handy and sketch out ideas.
Above: Jenny Fillius, The Polka-dot Princess, repurposed tin, 12”x9” 2025
Right: Jenny Fillius, Monsters Walk Amongst Us, repurposed tin, 18”x14” 2025
What do you consider your greatest artistic achievement?
I haven't experienced my greatest artistic achievement yet. I've had lots of little successes that I'm grateful for. Public Art, TV, Seattle Times, 3 BIMA group shows, 13 page spread in the magazine What Women Create.
Which living artist do you most admire?
Nick Cave.
What is the quality you most like in an artist?
A sense of humor and humility.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Just one? My list is so long. I'd like to have more patience.
What is your most treasured possession?
My brain, everything else is just stuff. Cool stuff, but stuff nonetheless.
Above: Jenny Fillius, A Cake for Stephanie, repurposed tin, 28”x15”, 2022
Right: Jenny Fillius, No Payascos, repurposed tin, 30”x 20”, 2024
Who has had a significant influence over your work?
My Mother. She was my number one fan and supported me through whatever I was into. Her artwork was quirky, a little naughty occasionally, but I got a lot out of it.
What is the quality you most like in an artist?
The qualities I like most in other artists are a sense of humor and humility.
How has your studio practice changed?
A few years ago, I took a studio at the Inscape building in the CID. It's been wonderful to have so much room to work in.
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
I have moments of perfect happiness every day, and those moments are from seeing or imagining something colorful or unexpected.
