Sculpting the Self: A Journey of Artistic Expression and Inner Peace

In this intimate session with Vanity Fair, artist Jenny engages in the tactile process of sculpting a self-portrait, using the medium of clay to reflect on her evolving identity, her professional journey as a pop star, and the discipline required to create her latest album, Ruby.

The Artistic Process as Reflection

As Jenny begins to sculpt, she admits to feeling like she is back in an "art class," acknowledging that she isn't a professional sculptor. The process of building her own likeness—starting with the body and moving to the face—serves as a metaphor for the self-discovery inherent in her work. She notes that her vision is guided by her own physical experience: "I can't see well, so I have to look at myself really close up in the mirror." This attention to detail mirrors the way she approaches her music, where every element is intentional and deeply personal.

The Pop Star Lifestyle and Personal Growth

Jenny describes her career not as a single era, but as an all-encompassing "lifestyle." Preparing for her album meant conditioning both her mindset and her body for what was to come. She emphasizes the importance of the "present moment," stating, "I want to enjoy this life as a pop star and then think about what to be in my next lifetime."

However, this drive comes with the challenge of knowing when to stop. Jenny admits she is "so accustomed to keep going" and that she has yet to meet her limit. To cope with the demands of her career, she relies on small comforts, such as bringing her own pillow and blanket everywhere she travels, viewing her large luggage as a way to maintain a sense of home and stability amidst a busy schedule.

Meditation and Creative Confidence

A pivotal theme in the discussion is the role of meditation in her creative process. Having started the practice during the pandemic, it has become a "crucial part" of her album development. Jenny explains that meditation provides a "safe place" where she can access her own words and expressions without distraction.

This practice has fostered a profound sense of self-assurance. "I don't have self-doubt," she asserts, noting that her ability to be "really clear on what I want and what I like" has been the driving force behind her success. She emphasizes the importance of believing "100% in the way I think" and accepting the consequences of those choices, a mindset that allowed her to navigate the challenges of producing her first full solo album.

The Final Reveal: The "Ruby" Persona

As the session concludes, Jenny unveils her finished sculpture: a figure sitting in a meditative pose, which she describes as "bloomin' in the ruby red color." This portrait represents how she envisions herself in relation to her album, Ruby. By manifesting this image of being "peaceful" and "zen," Jenny encapsulates the transition from the frantic pace of a pop star’s life to a state of grounded confidence. The sculpture stands as a testament to her journey—a physical manifestation of a woman who has learned to push herself further while maintaining an unwavering belief in her own creative voice.