Jennifer Cerami Bogart moved to New Orleans in 2011 from Jackson, Mississippi. A self-taught artist, she has been painting for as long as she can remember—starting around age four. One of her earliest artistic memories is a challenge from her brother to draw a lamb covered in curly-cue fur. He warned it would be “too much work.” She drew it anyway, curls and all. Growing up on a farm, animals naturally became her first muses.

The beloved Cucumber Cat was born years later in New Orleans when her youngest daughter, then about six, drew an image of their black cat Lulu shaped like a cucumber on a chalkboard. She called it “Cucumber Cat.” Unsure what to do with it, Jennifer outlined the drawing in white paint so it could never be erased. One day, she had an epiphany—to bring the character fully to life through her art.

Jennifer became a Pirates Alley artist in June 2019 and juried into Jackson Square in May 2021. She thrives on creativity and challenge, finding painting both peaceful and deeply rewarding. Each piece takes time, evolving through experimentation and careful finishing touches. Her greatest joy comes from seeing the smiles on people’s faces when they connect with her work—because making people happy matters. Some may even call it “comfort art”.

She self-published a children’s book titled Hot Moon, inspired by her oldest daughter. The book is a poetic story paired with Jennifer’s own illustrations.

 Her artwork often incorporates subtle New Orleans details—magnolias, streetlamps, poboys shared with silly pigeons, and, of course, Cucumber Cat—woven into imaginative scenes.

Her work is known for its layered techniques. Jennifer often combines colored pencil with acrylic paint applied like watercolor, sometimes using “dirty” paint water to create spontaneous splatters. Every piece is an experiment—an act of learning, exploring, and appreciating new ways to create.

Jennifer’s love for New Orleans began during childhood family visits. The atmosphere, history, culture, music, architecture, streetcars, food, street performers, and the art lining the iron fences captivated her imagination. What started with a muffaletta for lunch and ended with beignets for dessert became a lifelong dream realized.

It’s never too late to follow your dreams.