Crystal Jorgensen – a Touch of Disney Magic
Featured Artist: Crystal Jorgensen – Crystal_Jorgensen_Art
We’re thrilled to welcome Crystal Jorgensen as our featured artist! 🎨✨ Crystal is a passionate illustrator whose work is heavily inspired by Disney, bringing expressive, animated characters to life with joy and vibrancy. From experimenting with Procreate and animation to perfecting background art that tells a story, she’s always pushing her creative boundaries. Her art radiates positivity, aiming to inspire and uplift others. Join us as we dive into her artistic journey, explore her inspirations, and learn more about the challenges and triumphs she’s faced along the way. Let’s get to know Crystal and celebrate her incredible work! 💛
Where are you based?
United States
How would you describe your art style in a few words?
I pull a lot of my inspiration from Disney. I've been a Disney fan my whole life and always loved the way those characters made me feel. My style is very animated, expressive, and cartoon-like.
What inspired you to start creating art?
I've loved art since I was little. In college, I took an intro to figure drawing class, and I absolutely loved it—especially my instructor. A few years ago, I really started taking my art more seriously. When I got my first iPad, it was rough at first, but I learned so much from other artists on Instagram.
Can you share a bit about your creative journey so far?
There’s always something new I’m working on or trying to learn. When I first started drawing on my tablet, it was a big adjustment. Then I focused on drawing facial expressions, then poses that looked more natural. Eventually, I started experimenting with animation in Procreate Dreams, which has been a lot of fun! Right now, I’m focusing on making background art that is more eye-catching and helps tell a story.
What themes or messages do you explore in your work?
Most of my art is happy—I want to spread joy and positivity! I stay away from politics because I want people to enjoy my art without that influence. I mostly draw women, but I’ve recently been drawing more couples, especially for my latest commission work with an author.
Do you have any favorite mediums or tools?
I primarily use my tablet with Procreate, and I love using a paper-like screen protector. When I do traditional art, I mostly use gouache and watercolor because they’re affordable and easy to use. I’ve also worked with oil and acrylics, but I feel like I need more instruction to use them properly.
What has been the biggest challenge in your art journey?
Being seen. It’s really hard to get your art out there, especially when you live in a small city. I’ve tried craft and art fairs, but foot traffic is usually low. And social media is so saturated with incredible artists that it’s easy to feel small in comparison.
What are you currently working on or experimenting with?
Right now, I’m working on commission pieces for an author who writes romance fantasy books. I’m hoping this will help get my art seen by more people and maybe lead to more commissions. Once I finish, I want to focus on perfecting my background art and exploring more animation.
How do you stay motivated and inspired?
I try not to scroll too much on Instagram. It’s easy to feel discouraged when you see so many artists with amazing careers, and imposter syndrome kicks in. I want to be supportive, but sometimes I catch myself wondering, "Do I even belong here?"
Have you ever faced creative blocks? How do you overcome them?
All the time. When that happens, I step away. I do something else, like read a book, and then—out of nowhere—an idea hits, and I’m back at it.
What do you hope people feel when they see your work?
I want people to feel inspired—to create something that makes them happy and brings them joy.
Have you connected with other artists or communities that have helped you?
Absolutely! Some of my favorites are Adam, Abby I Sweet, Pernille, and Lauren B. I’ve also participated in MerMay two years in a row, along with DisEmber. These events are great for connecting with fans and other artists.
How do you engage with your audience?
I reply to every comment, stay connected in DMs, share other artists’ work in my stories, and engage with their posts as well. We all support each other!
What’s one dream project or goal you’d love to achieve?
I’d love to work for Disney someday. I know it’s a long shot, but working in character design or animation would be a dream. I’d also love to have my art sold in the Downtown Disney art gallery.
Where do you see your art journey going in the next year?
Honestly, I try to stay focused on the present. Thinking too far ahead can get overwhelming. But I’d love to see my Instagram following grow more!
Any upcoming projects or releases you’d like to share?
I’m currently working on commissions for J.N. Stein.
Where can people find you?
📍 Instagram: @Crystal_Jorgensen_Art
What’s one random fact about you?
I’m legally blind in one eye!
Favorite creative ritual or habit?
Make coffee, stare at paper for an hour, then create.
Any advice for small artists starting out?
Just create! Get involved in the art community both online and offline. Engage with other artists. Join drawing challenges like DTIYS or prompt lists. It really helps!
A huge thank you to Crystal Jorgensen for sharing her creative journey with us! 🎨✨ Her passion for expressive, animated art and spreading joy is truly inspiring. We’re excited to see where her talent takes her next! Be sure to follow Crystal and support her amazing work. Keep creating and chasing your dreams! 💛✨