People / My Bristol Favourites
My Bristol Favourites: Jess Knights
Jess Knights is a freelance illustrator and creative facilitator based at Jamaica Street Studios, whose open studios are taking place from September 19 to 21.
Jess usually uses mixed media – paints, pens, pastels, collage and design software – to create her textural illustrations and murals in her own style.
Her workshops held across Bristol include Speed Sketch, Drink & Draw and Seasonal Veg Illustration.
These are Jess’ top-five Bristol favourites:
Condesa
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“Condesa on Whiteladies Road might be expensive for some, but it’s 100 per cent gluten-free. I was diagnosed with coeliac disease in my early 20s and it’s so difficult to eat out, but this is one of the few restaurants in Bristol where I feel completely safe eating. I’ve written about my experience of the condition and worked on a project for Coeliac UK, which can be found on my website. Condesa also do brilliant cocktails; the mezcal margarita is my fave.”
The Bristol Cheesemonger
Jess has recently painted a mural at the Bristol Cheesemonger on Gloucester Road – photo: Martin Booth
“I’ve worked with the Bristol Cheesemonger on Gloucester Road for years and recently painted a massive mural for them, using paint from Molotow Bristol. My favourite cheese is probably the hyper-local White Lake Driftwood. I’m also a member of the Bristol Mural Collective, which I joined just out of lockdown. I’ve learnt so many tips and tricks there and made lifelong friends.”
Little Martha
Little Martha can be found within a railway arch near Temple Meads – photo: Martin Booth
“I run my Drink & Draw workshops at Little Martha in St Philip’s, and it’s such a cosy and friendly microbrewery. It’s tucked away but still central enough for a post-studio pint. They have a fab selection of soft drinks and local ciders alongside their famous beers.”
Make Bristol
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“I’ve been using Make Bristol on East Street in Bedminster to get back into ceramics this year, and they are so friendly and helpful. I’ve already learnt so much, and I know I’ll be spending more time here in years to come.”
Jamaica Street Studios and Kit Form
Jamaica Street Studio’s open studios take place over the weekend of September 19 to 21 – photo: Martin Booth
“I have my art studio here, and we’re absolutely over the moon that Jamaica Street Studios is now the proud owner of 37-39 Jamaica Street, which includes Kit Form. The building is now in community ownership, for the arts, forever. We can’t thank the community enough; we couldn’t have done it without them. Finally, some good news this year! And we have Open Studios coming up if you’d like to be nosey. Save the date: September 19 to 21. We’ve got a lot to celebrate this year!”
Main photo: CNK Photoworks
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