Locust Grove VA

Erika James-Jackson is an emerging, abstract artist whose paintings reflect her personality, sense of style, and how she sees the world: colorful, vibrant, bold, eclectic and imperfect. As a published author [pen name EJ Jackson], poet, masterful storyteller, singer, motivational speaker and mentor, Erika has no shortage of creative outlets, however something was still missing.  In 2024, Erika began painting classes at a local art studio and she was captivated. “Love at first brushstroke” is how she describes her new relationship with painting; honing her newfound craft regularly and sharing her art and personal story, of strength and resilience, to local and national audiences.

Prior to delving into the arts, Erika was a legal industry veteran that was medically advised to discontinue her career due to the progression of her Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Not willing to allow MS to cease her existence, Erika pivoted to activism; raising awareness for the chronic, debilitating disease, as well as aligning herself with local non-profits to lend her voice and lived experiences to social issues that affect her deeply.  When not painting, Erika enjoys spending time with her husband of over 30 years, her son and daughter-in-law, as well as reading, writing, watching documentaries and listening to music.

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