Artist Statement: Jasmine Leslie Ross

My work explores the intersection of creativity, connection, ritual, and human experience. Through participatory experiences, immersive environments, contemplative practices, and community gatherings, I create spaces where people can pause, slow down, and reconnect with themselves, each other, and the world around them. 

At the heart of my work is a belief that creativity belongs to everyone. Creativity is not limited to traditional art forms—it is a way of engaging with life. It is the spark of inspiration, curiosity, imagination, and purpose that lives within each of us. My work seeks to create opportunities for people to tap into that inner spark, remember what lights them up, and reconnect with the unique gifts, passions, and wisdom they carry within. 

Drawing from a background in art, psychology, mindfulness, movement, and community engagement, I create experiences that invite reflection, participation, and presence. Whether through installation, ritual, movement, meditation, storytelling, or collaborative art-making, I am less interested in art as an object and more interested in art as an experience—something that can be felt, shared, and lived. 

Nature is a constant source of inspiration in my work. The rhythms of breath, the changing seasons, and the interconnectedness of all living things remind us that we are part of something larger than ourselves. Through simple acts of presence and participation, I hope to create environments where people feel welcomed, inspired, and connected. 

This philosophy is reflected in my participation with BIFA and my collaboration alongside Laurie Shapiro’s Inner Harmony installation. Through the Inner Space activations, I am honored to help support and extend Laurie’s vision by creating opportunities for stillness, reflection, creativity, and connection. Together, these experiences invite participants to step away from the pace of daily life, explore their own inner landscape, and reconnect with a sense of belonging, possibility, and wonder. My hope is that people leave feeling more alive, more connected, and more empowered to bring their unique gifts into the world.