Meet a Mom Monday! Meet Jen Scully, an artist who recently relocated from Connecticut to the Lowcountry. Growing up in New England – spanning coastal Maine, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, Jen brings a rich seaside influence to her art. A full-time painter for the past decade, Jen turned her lifelong passion into a professional career after working in the nonprofit sector while nurturing her artistic talents on the side. Her paintings are a vibrant celebration of the coast, using textures, colors, and shapes to evoke a playful seaside spirit. Working out of a home studio, Jen strives to invite the essence of the coast into her clients’ homes, infusing each space with the serene joy of beachside moments. Jen resides on James Island with her husband, two sons (ages 10 and 14), and their three rescue dogs. Read more below about Jen!
Where are you originally from and how long have you been in Charleston, SC?
I’m originally from New England. I grew up in Maine, went to college and graduate school in Massachusetts and moved to Connecticut shortly after getting married. We made the leap to Charleston in June of 2023, so we’ve officially celebrated our first year in the Lowcountry!
Tell us about your family
My husband and I met in college at Boston University and got married in 2005 (this September will be 19 years!). We have two boys, ages 10 and 14. I always imagined myself as a “girl mom”—goodbye shopping spree dreams and hello baseball fields! While I miss the shopping and manicures, being a boy mom is a thrilling adventure. Our pack is rounded out by three rescue dogs (yes, three! and two of them are girls, so I’m not completely outnumbered).
One thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Given the nature of my work, you might be surprised to learn that I’m actually quite scared of the ocean. I have a deep respect for the water, but I prefer to enjoy it from the safety of dry sand, a boat, or a deck with a view. One of the things that scares me (and intrigues me) most in life is sharks. Now that we are further south, I’ve seen people catch sharks right from the shore and I’d rather not be sharing a swim with those incredible creatures in their home!
What’s your favorite thing about raising a family in Charleston?
Without a doubt, the endless adventures that await us year-round! Charleston is a playground for families, filled with parks, beaches, boats, and incredible restaurants. In just one year, we barely scratched the surface of our bucket list!
Tell us about your art business, Jen Scully Studio, and when & why you decided to start this business.
Ever since I was a little kid, I dreamed of being an artist with a studio by the coast of Maine. While my coastal view has moved South, I feel so incredibly lucky to be living that dream here in Charleston! For as long as I can remember, art has been my true love. About ten years ago, I decided to dive in and start selling my work while balancing a full-time job and motherhood. It’s been quite the journey! There have been challenging moments, but painting does wonders for my active (and sometimes anxious) mind. It’s my creative escape, allowing me to pause and savor the present. Now, Jen Scully Studio is my full-time gig, and I couldn’t be happier bringing a touch of beauty and the coast into people’s lives and homes.
Why type of artwork do you love to create?
Painting is my main jam! Most of my work pays tribute to the coast. Whether my pieces are calming and serene or vibrant and playful, I strive to capture the essence of the sea and beachside moments for my clients.
Tell us more about your shift in your work as you moved from New England, down to Charleston.
The Lowcountry brings a whole new vibe! Embracing this fresh culture and environment has been a joy, and you’ll definitely see those influences reflected in my upcoming collections.
What is your favorite piece of art to create?
I’m all about keeping it light-hearted! While I take my business seriously, I believe art should be fun, spontaneous, and full of joy. Any piece that evokes those feelings in others ends up being my favorite to create.
Do you have any new collections you have been working on that are coming out in the near future you can tell us about?
I’m super excited about my plans for Q4—I have some incredible projects in the works! Right now, I’m diving into a new collection inspired by a fabulous paint line called “À La Plage” from one of my favorite designers, Gaelle Dudley. These abstract pieces will embody the calm of the sea. Plus, I’ve got some festive holiday projects brewing, including mini canvases and ornaments that will be all about bold colors and festive fun!
Where can someone purchase your artwork and collections?
You can find my work on Instagram, where I share lots of behind-the-scenes fun! The best place to snag a piece is through my website: jenscullystudio.com. I’ll be sharing a ton of new collection sneak peeks on IG over the next few months, so stay tuned!
Tell us more about your work/life balance within motherhood.
“Balance” feels like a tricky term for me. My creative flow ebbs and flows more than a tide! When inspiration hits, I dive in headfirst; some weeks, you won’t find me near a canvas at all, and other weeks, I’m practically living in my studio. Thankfully, as my kids grow, they’re becoming more independent, which makes it easier. I’m lucky to have a flexible work schedule, allowing me to prioritize watching them in their sports—being their biggest cheerleader is non-negotiable for me!
Who has most influenced you to be the mom that you are today?
My mom is a huge influence—she’s a rockstar and has been an amazing role model—but honestly, my closest friends inspire me daily. I have a small circle of remarkable friends who are all such different moms. I love picking up on what I admire in their parenting styles and incorporating those nuggets into my own journey.
One thing you wish someone would have told you about motherhood?
Here’s the real scoop: it doesn’t really get “easier.” As a new mom, I always felt frustrated hearing that from those navigating the older stages. I thought nothing could be harder than those sleepless nights with a colicky baby! Now, I realize it’s not easier; it just transforms. The things that keep me tossing and turning at night with a 10 and 14-year-old are certainly different from the toddler days! Not easier, just different.
What advice would you share with a new mom or other moms?
Don’t fall into the comparison trap, especially in the social media world! Focus on what truly matters to you and try to do that with intention. And remember, you won’t always nail it, and that’s perfectly okay. You might feel like you’re just getting by most of the time, and that’s fine! As long as you’re putting in the effort and showing up, you’re doing great.
We love supporting local businesses – favorite places in Charleston to…
Have Dinner with Family: Minero on John’s Island
Grab a Drink with Friends: 167 bar
Have a Date Night: Malagon, Chasing Sage and Melfi’s (good lunch date spot)
Spend time together as a Family: Folly
Outside Activities: Kayak in shem creek or walk in James Island County Park
Grab coffee: Harken
