In this inspiring episode of Women United ART PODCAST, I sit down with Jocelyn Benford, an abstract painter who took a bold leap from a 21-year career in elementary education to embrace her passion for art full-time. What began in 2020 as a creative outlet during the pandemic quickly grew into a daily practice—and a thriving career.

Jocelyn shares how she built her artistic journey step by step: from her first solo show at Sweet Lorraine Gallery to exhibiting in prominent New York City spaces like Established Gallery, 440 Gallery, BWAC, and First Street Gallery. Now represented by Idea Gallery in Wisconsin, she has also participated in international residencies, joined vibrant artist communities, and begun teaching painting workshops that merge her love of art with her lifelong dedication to education.

In our conversation, we explore:
✨ What it takes to walk away from a long-term career to pursue art later in life
✨ The unpredictable magic of watercolor and mixed media
✨ Using Instagram and calls for entry to grow visibility and opportunities
✨ The joy of building community—through residencies, teaching, and workshops
✨ How painting can become both a grounding practice and a source of resilience

Jocelyn’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to start again, follow your creative instincts, and build a life rooted in joy, passion, and courage.

JOCELYN BENFORD

www.jocelynbenfordart.com

IG: @jocelynbenford

This show is brought to you by Women United ART MOVEMENT, a global platform highlighting women in the arts through a wide range of opportunities such as solo and group exhibits, annual art prize for women artists, and quarterly publication.

www.womenunitedartmovement.com
@womenunited_art_movement
@womenunited_art_magazine