Her studio practice is deeply connected to her experience of migration and to the stories passed down through her family. Her family migrated from the highlands of Peru to Lima, carrying with them memories, traditions, and stories of a place they had left behind. Years later, Fer experienced her own migration to another country. These two experiences became a way for her to think about what we carry with us when we leave a place and what changes when we begin building a life somewhere new.
Through printmaking, fibers, ceramics, drawing, and mixed media, Fer transforms memories and oral stories into visual records. Layering, texture, repetition, and material transformation allow her to explore how identity shifts across time, place, and generations.
For Fer, making art is also a way of understanding her own journey. It allows her to remember where she comes from while making space for the person she is becoming.
About Fer
Jennifer Cruz Ciprian (Fer) is a Peruvian multidisciplinary artist based in Fuquay Varina, North Carolina. Her journey as an artist has been shaped by migration, starting over, and the process of finding herself in new places.
Her relationship with art began in Peru, where she initially studied Industrial Design at the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú in Lima. After taking a ceramics course, she discovered a connection to working with her hands and changed her major to Sculpture. That experience changed the direction of her education and, eventually, her life.
After the COVID-19 pandemic, Fer moved to the United States in search of new opportunities. Moving to a different country meant adapting to a new language, culture, environment, and way of life while figuring out who she wanted to become. During her time in Miami, she earned an Associate of Arts in Art at Miami Dade College and began working in museums. Through these experiences, she discovered a passion for museum education, community engagement, and creating meaningful connections between people and art.
Years later, she relocated to North Carolina, where she continues to develop her artistic and professional practice. She is currently completing a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art at Meredith College.
FAQs
Why do you go by “Fer”?
When I was a child, I couldn't pronounce "Jennifer" (too long, I guess!), so I would introduce myself as Fer. Eventually, my family started calling me "Fer" too, and it just stuck.
Are you a morning artist or midnight artist?
Definitely a midnight artist. For some reason, my energy level goes up at 10 p.m. That’s usually when my brain decides it’s time to make art.
Do you plan your artwork or just start making?
I’m a planner and an overthinker, so I usually visualize my projects and sketch them out first. But when it comes to actually making them, I figure out how to bring the idea to life along the way.
Cats or dogs?
Cats! I grew up with dogs, but once I had my first cat, I realized I was definitely a cat person.
Do you sell prints of your artwork?
Yes! An online store is coming soon. For now, if you’re interested in purchasing a print, feel free to contact me by email. Shipping availaible only in the US.