Musician Jess Ribeiro believes you can be a ‘starving artist’ but rich in spirit
Jess’ upbringing in a small country town, steeped in the energy of Chinese restaurant kitchens, provided a unique backdrop for her artistic and culinary evolution. Her Hong Kong-born father found solace in these kitchens, where Cantonese was more than a language—it was a connection to his roots in a place far from home. This blend of cultures and cuisines laid the foundation for Jess's appreciation of diverse narratives and flavours.
A QUICK WHIP AROUND THE INGREDIENTS THAT MAKE UP JESS
PRONOUNS: She / Her
HOMETOWN: Anaiwan Land / Armidale NSW, Naarm / Melbourne
JOB DESCRIPTION: Musician
On the creative process:
“It’s so good when you get in the flow and you kind of ride the tide”
During our chat, Jess challenges the stereotype of the starving artist, emphasising the richness of spirit that creative pursuits bring. In her own words, "We are communicators. We feed the soul of human beings." This ethos underscores her belief in the profound impact of art—be it a poignant song or a captivating painting—to inspire, provoke thought, and ignite new possibilities.
Stories, connection and conversation keep Jess going. She believes in her bones that art and food allow us to access different places, worlds, cultures and people.
Her album ‘Summer of Love’, made during one of Victoria’s numerous lockdowns whilst staying solo at the Point Lonsdale Guesthouse is out now.
We weren’t suprised to hear Jess say that if she was a meal, she’d be organic, loving and cosmic.
Join us to find out What Jess Eats.
WHAT JESS EATS
JOOK (CHICKEN CONGEE)
Jess has been eating congee her whole life (it’s her earliest food memory). She’s had so many different types, but this is her favourite.
Recipe tips:
If you’re vegetarian you can use shiitake mushrooms instead of chicken
It’s warming and really good for you, especially if you're feeling run down
MADE THIS RECIPE? TAG US AND SHARE THE FUN
#JESS’JOOK #WHATARTISTSEAT
LINKS & MENTIONS
LINKS TO ARTIST INFORMATION, RESOURCES AND ANYTHING ELSE WE CHATTED ABOUT
INFORMATION AND TAKEAWAYS FROM OUR CHAT
Get yourself an accountability buddy - a friend who will hold you accountable for your creative work. Jess is now Claire’s accountability buddy and during our interview, decided that her solo exhibition is in November!
Jess’ favourite musical artist is Patti Smith
Jess journals and writes her dreams down, as well as speaks w a Jungian dream analyst
Jess’ favourite studio snack is a green apple
DON’T FORGET: Summer of Love Album Tour Dates
June 22nd Great Club Sydney
June 23rd La La La's Wollongong
June 28th Brunswick Ballroom Melbourne
July 6th Bridge Hotel Castlemaine