In my practice, I explore our role as ecosystem builders and destroyers through the perspective of the plants and animals that live near and with humans in the urban/suburban landscape. I look to see how the edges of the built environment coalesce with the “natural” landscape. I reflect on our relationships with these species, seeing how they shape me and mediate my experience of the urban/suburban landscape. These complex relationships are what makes us human animals. These species exist in our homes, in our yards, in between the cracks of our built environment, fragmented but still thriving and never truly under our command, enmeshed in our homes and neighborhoods.

My work looks through the lenses of native and non-native species, cultivated and accidental ecosystems, and environmental disruption to explore our place in the world. I want to celebrate and grieve the non-human species I live my life alongside and the complexities that come with navigating my emotions about them and what we as humans do to them. By looking to my past and present relationships with non-human species, I render them on an intimate scale with drawing, painting, and collage.

Jessica Tenbusch is an artist and illustrator based in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Her work is inspired by the plants and animals that live near and with humans in the suburban/urban landscape. She explores these complex inter-species relationships as well as how those relationships shape her as a human animal. Creating works on paper using drawing and cut paper forms, she reflects on our role as ecosystem builders and destroyers. She has exhibited in solo and group shows nationally including at River House Arts (OH), Momentum Gallery (NC), and Hatch Arts (MI). Her work has been featured in print by Create! Magazine and BOOOOOOOM, and online by BOOOOOOOM, Create! Magazine, Rustbelt Arts, and The Jealous Curator. Illustration clients include the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability and the band Maggie Belle. Jessica is active in cultivating a local art community curating shows at River House Arts (OH), Ann Arbor Arts Center (MI), and Hatch Arts (MI) as well as, being a former owner/operator of Ypsi Alloy Studios, a 3D arts studio she formed and co-owned with two other local artists. Jessica received her BFA and MFA from Eastern Michigan University where she concentrated in metalsmithing and drawing.