JILL WELLS ART

Jill Wells, an Iowa-based interdisciplinary artist, advocate, and mentor, is renowned for her unique and narrative-driven approach to art. Her work, deeply rooted in examining critical social issues, is distinguished by its use of public art, universal design, and multisensory elements, setting her apart in the art world.

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Wells' pioneering use of tactile objects and Braille has not only sparked significant conversation in the art world but also positioned her as a leader in inclusive artistic practices. Her work is celebrated for its innovative approach, inspiring others to rethink the boundaries of art and accessibility.

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One of her landmark achievements is the creation of the first multisensory, tactile mural and 3D tactile mural model plaque in Iowa for the Martin Luther King Elementary School in 2023. These works incorporate various textures and materials, allowing for engagement through touch, sight, and sound, and exemplify her commitment to making art inclusive and accessible.

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As the first artist and fellow of color at The Harkin Institute (2022–23), Wells represented both the United States and Iowa on a panel at the United Nations in Austria, advocating for inclusive public arts. Her impactful work, which is featured in both public and private collections nationally and internationally, continues to inspire. She continues to inspire through her full-time art practice and her mentorship program, ARTIST X ADVOCACY (AXA), which she founded in 2020. This program supports Iowa's next generation of artists and advocates, furthering her mission of fostering inclusion and community.

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In her artistic practice, Wells creates paintings, murals, immersive installations, and tactile art to prompt dialogue around diversity, accessibility, and unity. Her work represents a powerful resistance against systems of oppression, aiming to elevate accessibility and drive significant social change through art.

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ARTIST STATEMENT:

My art is not just about the issues I address, but also about the audience's role in the experience. By integrating tactile elements, Braille, and multisensory experiences, I create art that invites interaction on multiple levels—touch, sight, and sound. This approach not only enhances accessibility but also fosters more profound, more inclusive dialogue, in which you, the audience, play a crucial part.
My projects, including the multisensory and 3D tactile mural model at Martin Luther King Elementary School, are designed to make art a shared experience accessible to all. Through paintings, murals, and immersive installations, I aim to address social inequalities, promote inclusivity, and represent marginalized voices.
For me, art is a catalyst for social change. Each piece is an act of resistance and a step toward a future where art and accessibility are intertwined, inspiring a more equitable and integrated society."