I'm Jen—the illustrator and surface designer behind By Jen. My artwork blends playful imagery, bright color palettes, and a heartfelt spirit -perfect for greeting cards, gift wrap, stationery, textiles, and children's products. With my skills in digital illustration, graphic design, and seamless repeating patterns, I create joy filled designs inspired by the idea that everyday is a gift. Before becoming a full-time artist, I spent 20 years working as an optometrist. But everything changed in 2020 after a life-altering breast cancer diagnosis. That experience helped me see more clearly than ever that life is precious, and creativity had always been calling. I made the leap—and now every day in my studio is a celebration of gratitude, imagination, and play.

Jen Slutsky

PRO

I'm Jen—the illustrator and surface designer behind By Jen. My artwork blends playful imagery, bright color palettes, and a heartfelt spirit -perfect for greeting cards, gift wrap, stationery, textiles, and children's products. With my skills in digital illustration, graphic design, and seamless repeating patterns, I create joy filled designs inspired by the idea that everyday is a gift. Before becoming a full-time artist, I spent 20 years working as an optometrist. But everything changed in 2020 after a life-altering breast cancer diagnosis. That experience helped me see more clearly than ever that life is precious, and creativity had always been calling. I made the leap—and now every day in my studio is a celebration of gratitude, imagination, and play.

Available to hire

I’m Jen—the illustrator and surface designer behind By Jen. My artwork blends playful imagery, bright color palettes, and a heartfelt spirit -perfect for greeting cards, gift wrap, stationery, textiles, and children’s products. With my skills in digital illustration, graphic design, and seamless repeating patterns, I create joy filled designs inspired by the idea that everyday is a gift.

Before becoming a full-time artist, I spent 20 years working as an optometrist. But everything changed in 2020 after a life-altering breast cancer diagnosis. That experience helped me see more clearly than ever that life is precious, and creativity had always been calling. I made the leap—and now every day in my studio is a celebration of gratitude, imagination, and play.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Illustrator and Surface Designer at Jen Design
January 1, 2020 - Present
Illustrator and surface designer creating colorful, whimsical art for the gift, stationery, and children’s publishing industries. Skilled in digital illustration, graphic design, and creating seamless repeating patterns, with a focus on joyful, commercially appealing designs.
Optometrist/Business Owner at Jennifer L Slutsky, OD
January 1, 2000 - January 1, 2020
As an optometrist and small business owner, I honed my eye for detail, my ability to connect with people, and my knack for solving visual challenges. Running my own practice taught me how to balance creativity and precision, manage projects with care, and create experiences that leave people feeling seen, valued, and cared for—skills that now flow naturally into my work as an illustrator and designer.
High School Band Merchandise Coordinator at Granite Bay High School Emerald Brigade
January 1, 2020 - January 1, 2022
Brought school spirit to life with playful, eye-catching designs for t-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, and more. Managed the full journey from sketch to sale—creating artwork, coordinating production, and keeping students and parents outfitted in style all marching season long.

Education

Bachelor of Science in Biology at University of California, Davis
January 1, 1992 - January 1, 1996
OD, Professional Degree in Optometry at Southern California College of Optometry
January 1, 1996 - January 1, 2000
Graphic Design & Illustration at Sierra Community College, CA
June 1, 2014 - December 31, 2014
Illustration, Surface Pattern Design & Graphic Design at Numerous Online Courses
June 1, 2014 - April 30, 2026
Continuous learning in the area of illustration and design

Qualifications

Optometry License
January 1, 2000 - April 30, 2026

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Education, Healthcare, Consumer Goods, Professional Services, Retail, Life Sciences