CJ Hendry, the visionary artist known for her hyperrealistic drawings and immersive exhibitions, recently sat down with MINDED Podcast host Yuri to discuss her creative journey, her evolving approach to art, and the delicate balance of her life as an artist and a mother. Hendry’s signature charm and candidness were on full display, making for a lively and insightful conversation that peeled back the layers of her unique career.
The Power of Space and Scale
Hendry, whose current base is a sprawling 22,000-square-foot warehouse in Brooklyn, spoke about how space influences her creative process. “Space is a beautiful thing,” she explained. For Hendry, the scale of her surroundings pushes her to think bigger, both in terms of her exhibitions and the scope of her artistic ideas. As her warehouse has grown, so too have her concepts, including a recent exhibition where she built a swimming pool in the desert and an upcoming project involving a greenhouse on Roosevelt Island.
Yet, she’s quick to note that bigger isn’t always better. “The goal is not size; the goal is concept,” Hendry explained. “I’m more interested in creating artificial environments—like the fake greenhouse with plush flowers we’re building—rather than simply scaling up for its own sake.”
Execution Over Perfection
Hendry’s work ethic is another key theme of the conversation. Her approach to art is driven by relentless ambition and a commitment to executing every concept at the highest level. Despite her clear success, Hendry is refreshingly humble about her path: “I don’t consider myself naturally talented, but I work really hard.” This ethos is something Hendry credits to her background as a competitive swimmer, a profession where dedication and perseverance were key.
Throughout the discussion, Hendry emphasized the importance of pushing creative boundaries and staying true to her vision, even if it means taking risks. She spoke of a planned exhibition in LA—a circus-themed event with a carousel and tent—where the location hadn’t been finalized just months before its debut. “Sometimes it’s last-minute, but we always make it work,” she remarked with her signature confidence.
Balancing Work, Family, and Art
A mother of two (and expecting her third), Hendry was equally candid about how she manages family life alongside her thriving career. She rejects the notion of "balance," saying, “Balance is for people who want an easy life. There’s no balance here—there’s work, there’s family, and it’s all happening at once.” Yet, it’s clear that for Hendry, this blend of family and work is not a burden but a source of fulfillment.
“I haven't given up my life for my kids, and I don’t expect them to give up theirs for me,” she said, reflecting on how she’s integrated her children into her world of art and exhibitions. “It's a 24/7 life and it's full, but it's magical.”
Creativity in a Changing World
In reflecting on her career trajectory, Hendry acknowledged how the art world has evolved, particularly with the rise of social media. Her early success on platforms like Instagram allowed her to bypass traditional gallery systems, creating a direct line between herself and her audience. While this wasn't part of her original plan, she embraces the freedom it affords her. “It’s a beautiful time to be an artist. You can do things your way,” she noted.
However, Hendry isn’t opposed to partnerships, having recently collaborated with luxury brands like Clé de Peau. What matters most to her is maintaining creative control and ensuring that every project aligns with her vision. “I’m not here for ‘pay-to-play,’” she remarked, emphasizing her desire to create truly immersive and thoughtful experiences, whether in a gallery or a brand collaboration.
A Life Built on Ambition
What stands out most about CJ Hendry is her unwavering ambition and the drive to execute on her vision. Despite her immense success, she remains grounded, constantly questioning her own path while continuing to push boundaries in the art world. In an industry that often celebrates appearances over substance, Hendry’s commitment to hard work, honesty, and authenticity is a breath of fresh air.
“People may not care about the hard work behind the scenes, but I do,” she said with a laugh. And it’s this dedication that continues to set CJ Hendry apart—making her not only an artist to watch but one to admire.
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