Welcome

Jessica Thornton is an artist, illustrator, printmaker and community organizer based in Palmer, Alaska. Most recognized for her linework and messaging, she is deeply inspired by the Circumpolar North and the connections we have with the places we call Home.

About

I was born in Åbo, Finland and raised in Huizen, the Netherlands. My work is inspired by my Finnish heritage, social and environmental justice movements, Arctic flora and fauna, and the unseen, beautiful connections we have to our environment.

I create bold and vibrant designs that use contrast and movement to evoke emotions and celebrate our connections with the places that we call Home. 

I am deeply passionate about the role of art in building narrative strategies in social justice movements. I make artwork that is meant to inspire action and change and I truly believe that everyone has the capacity to create something that can help heal the world. My mediums include linoprint, screenprint, letterpress, pen and ink and digital art.

I also enjoy creating jewelry and other wearable art. There is power in what we choose to wear, and how we communicate our values and passions with the world!

Thanks for visiting.

Values and Vision

I work and live on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Denai’na and Ahtna peoples. I acknowledge this not only in gratitude to the Indigenous communities who have held relationship with this land for generations but also in recognition of the historical and ongoing trauma of colonialism.

I am guided by the Jemez Principles for Democratic Organizing and the values and principles of Defend the Sacred AK. While I am a so-called “self-taught” artist, I recognize the contributions of a lineage of artists and teachers who have influenced and encouraged me along the way.

I am accountable to my community and am committed to the lifelong and multi-generational work of dismantling white supremacy, colonialism, capitalism, and all systems that oppress our communities. I guide my work in our visions for a Just Transition and our collective liberation.

Thank you

Please feel free to contact me with feedback and queries: jessicathorntondesigns@gmail.com