Meet 2020's Artist of the Year
by Jill Duff-Hoppes
Renowned artist and writer Joanne Fink – known for her Zenspirations line of art books – has been named Seminole County’s Artist of the Year for 2020.
The multi-talented Joanne, who lives in Longwood, is also a teacher, speaker, and spiritual seeker. The bestselling author and designer has more than a million books in print, which include adult coloring books and inspirational guides to journaling.
Every year, the Seminole Cultural Arts Council (SCAC) and the Seminole County Board of County Commissioners recognize a performer, visual artist, author, or historian as the Artist of the Year. Award recipients must live in Seminole County and contribute their time and talent for the enrichment of arts or culture in the county.
“I’m deeply honored to have been chosen as the Seminole County 2020 Artist of the Year,” Joanne says. “Over the past 25 years, I’ve been blessed to receive many awards and to have had my art shown internationally, but this is the first time I’ve ever been recognized by my local community. It means a lot to me.”
SCAC board member and fellow artist Bonnie Sprung nominated Joanne for the award.
“I’ve known Joanne for many years, and she is there to help out, whether it’s just to talk or to help raise money for local Jewish services, the JCC, or a synagogue,” Bonnie says. “Through good times and bad, Joanne always has a smile on her face. And the graphics she creates for her business Zenspirations can brighten anyone’s day.”
Joanne’s Zenspirations brand is encouraging and uplifting, which is made clear by its tagline: Live by inspiring others to fly. Her collection of books and other products, including stencils, stickers, and stamps, features Joanne’s method of patterned drawing and heartfelt sentiments. The books have been printed in multiple languages and are popular all over the world.
Another of Joanne’s books, When You Lose Someone You Love, is especially close to her heart. She penned and illustrated the gift book after the sudden death of her beloved husband, Andy Trattner, in 2011.
The prolific artist has stayed busy during the pandemic with various projects, including working on a new book and designing a Stay Home Moji collection for iPhones and iPads. The collection’s sayings, which can be texted to friends and family, include “We’ll get through this!” and “I’m tired of social distancing. I need a virtual hug!”
Joanne also created a couple of thank-you designs for medical personnel and essential workers on the front lines. The designs are free for anyone to download, print, color, share, and give to their favorite doctor, nurse, or other essential worker as an expression of gratitude.