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Life Behind the Easel
Personal Posts from me, Jennifer, the artist behind The 3rd Flamingo.


Capsule Wardrobe, But Make It Me
I set out to build a capsule wardrobe, simple and neutral. I came home with seven pairs of pants, one shirt, and a much better understanding of my style.
Jennifer Jones
2 days ago4 min read


O.M.G.! I’m Fine—ish — How This Goofy Monk Found Inner Peace
April brings blooms, chaos, and the monk who perfected the “meh, it’s fine” expression. Read his humorous journey to inner peace, one exaggerated shrug at a time.
Jennifer Jones
Apr 12 min read


Under the Surface Art Exhibit at Street SmARTS Gallery
What started as “just hanging a few paintings” turned into a full underwater world. Come see the Under the Surface art exhibit at Street SmARTS Gallery.
Jennifer Jones
Mar 292 min read


The Embosser Story: Lessons from a Cockeyed Seal
A cockeyed seal, a stubborn embosser, and lessons learned about fixing things—sometimes you just need a little help.
Jennifer Jones
Mar 82 min read


Small Lives Big Ideas Tiny Paintings for March at StreetsmART Gallery
Three small original paintings join the Small Lives Big Ideas wall at StreetsmART Gallery this March, capturing tiny worlds full of whimsy, color, and quiet magic.
Jennifer Jones
Mar 52 min read


OMG! It’s Serendipity, BABY! – March’s Cosmic Surprise Monk
March’s monk calendar art, OMG! It’s Serendipity, BABY! – March’s Cosmic Surprise Monk, captures a serendipitous, uncontainable moment of joy. Astonished delight, hands over his eyes, and pure bliss invite you to marvel at the absurd perfection of simply being alive.
Jennifer Jones
Mar 13 min read


February’s Weight: Grief, Memory, and the Unexpected
February can be heavy. In our family, it carries the memory of loss, laughter, and love. From my brother to my nephew, this month reminds us that grieving deeply is part of loving deeply—and that somehow, it’ll be alright.
Jennifer Jones
Feb 123 min read


Do Whales Get Itches? How These Gentle Giants Scratch an Itch
Ever wondered if whales get itches and how they might scratch them? From rubbing against surfaces to playful breaches, these gentle giants have some surprising ways to get relief.
Jennifer Jones
Feb 82 min read


Orange People and February Feelings at StreetSmART Gallery
Visit StreetSmART Gallery this February to see the orange people, Purplette and Romeo, in a playful, dry take on love, timing, and messy Valentine moments. Stop by First Friday or come anytime this month to experience these bold, emotionally flexible paintings that reward close looking.
Jennifer Jones
Feb 42 min read


O.M.G.! What Was That?!?: February Moments of Calm and Chaos
February’s startled monk captures the moment calm collides with chaos. Read about mindful jumps, tiny surprises, and creative inspiration.
Jennifer Jones
Feb 13 min read


“It’ll Be Alright” — Mantra for Hard Times
Life can be messy, unpredictable, and downright chaotic. The phrase “It’ll be alright” has carried me through courtrooms, coffee spills, and everyday disasters. Here’s why this simple mantra works—and how it might help you too.
Jennifer Jones
Jan 262 min read


When Words and Art Don’t Feel Right: My Artistic Process in Action
Discover how small adjustments in my artistic process, from a buffalo’s muzzle to an octopus’s gaze, bring my paintings to life and keep the creative journey full of surprises and laughter.
Jennifer Jones
Jan 242 min read


Creativity With Constraints: Inspiration or Frugality from Growing Up with Ten Siblings
Creativity with constraints began long before my art career. Growing up with ten siblings shaped my frugal habits, leftover paint practices, and unexpected artistic inspiration.
Jennifer Jones
Jan 183 min read


A Painting Reboot: Chasing the Signature Piece
A painting reboot begins with big ideas, a huge canvas, and a flamingo—then takes an unexpected turn when human figures refuse to cooperate.
Jennifer Jones
Jan 82 min read


Creative Reflection: A Year of Two AIs, Two Selves, and Asking Better Questions
A creative reflection on asking AI about your work life and your art life—and discovering they politely refuse to overlap. Plus, a goat or two with opinions.
Jennifer Jones
Jan 43 min read


New Year Traditions, Modified and Still Magical
Exploring New Year traditions from around the world, modified to fit real life. From black eyed peas and suitcase walks to grapes and secret underwear colors, these rituals add joy and intention to the new year.
Jennifer Jones
Jan 12 min read


O.M.G.! Just… No: Funny January Reflection
Meet the January Monk, a grumpy little sage silently protesting the new year’s resolutions. A funny January reflection full of dry humor, sarcastic observations, and a creative prompt for your own rebellion.
Jennifer Jones
Jan 13 min read


How We’re Planning to Make 2026 Memorable
Matt and I are taking control of 2026. After a quiet 2025, we’re scheduling fun, from plays and concerts to weekend getaways like Houston. Join us as we share our adventures, new restaurants, festivals, and spontaneous activities, because life deserves more than just rolling along.
Jennifer Jones
Dec 28, 20252 min read


My Delicious Winter Coffee Adventure: Door County Coffee’s 12 Days of Christmas and Beyond
Fall in love with Door County Coffee this holiday season! From the festive 12 Days of Coffee gift box to indulgent flavors like coconut, pecan, and caramel, every cup is a celebration of flavor.
Jennifer Jones
Dec 24, 20252 min read


After the Walls Are Quiet: Setting Up at Street SmARTs Gallery
Yesterday I set up my exhibit at Street SmARTs Gallery. From a blank wall to a wall bursting with color, here’s a behind-the-scenes look at the art, the helpers, and the walls with personalities of their own.
Jennifer Jones
Dec 21, 20252 min read
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