The Artist... (and how to get in touch)

Jessica E. Thompson is a traditional illustrator and lifelong Bay Area native, currently creating from her cozy corner of Rohnert Park, California. A firm believer that animals are the superior muses (and possibly better conversationalists), Jessica’s art is a heartfelt mix of curiosity, whimsy, and classical storytelling.

Her love of drawing began the moment she could hold a pencil — and she’s been covering paper in animals, odd creatures, and dreamy worlds ever since. Inspired by the charm of classic children’s book illustrations, she went on to earn her BFA in Traditional Illustration from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco in 2010.

Jessica works primarily in traditional media, wielding everything from charcoal and graphite to watercolor, acrylics, oils, and pen and ink — basically, if it makes a mark and smells a little like art school, she’s probably used it. Her illustrations are known for their gentle narratives, soft detail, and just a touch of mischief.

When she’s not elbow-deep in paint or chasing the perfect paper texture, she’s creating original artwork, prints, and commissions — with a hopeful eye toward one day illustrating her own children’s books. Her work invites viewers into quiet worlds full of wonder, memory, and sometimes animals wearing tiny clothes (because why not?).

What's with all of the birds?

Jessica is the proud parent of two, charming, but naughty conures- Loki and Ollie, who bring a load of inspiration in the form of their beauty and hilarious antics. Needless to say, they show up in Jessica's artwork from time to time.