Jimm Jenkins, a 66-year-old artist from San Diego, has found his true calling in creating elaborate paper sculptures. His unique style, which includes characters with varying features, from limbs and costuming to hair or teeth, has garnered attention from the horror community and beyond. The horror genre has played a significant role in shaping Jenkins’ artistic style, and he has become increasingly involved in local events rooted in the horror genre. This year, he will be showcasing his work at the San Diego Fright-Mart pop-up event, which will be held at the Handlery Hotel in Mission Valley from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday. Jenkins’ paper sculptures are not just visually stunning but also demonstrate a high level of skill and attention to detail. He typically completes his works in about 12 hours and takes great joy in receiving requests from friends and community members. “I feel like I have found my tribe with the creators in the horror community, like Re-Animated Records, The Secret Morgue, and Fright-Mart. They have encouraged me to keep creating and making more monsters,” Jenkins said of his involvement in the horror community. Jenkins’ artistic journey began in the mid-1970s, when he started working with paper in the sign making business. Over time, he refined his craft and began creating paper sculptures inspired by classic films like “Planet of the Apes” and “Star Trek.” As his skills improved, he started to explore other genres, including horror. One of the unique aspects of Jenkins’ paper sculptures is the use of paper as a medium. “Paper can have a mind of its own,” he explained, “so sometimes that can change the direction of a piece.” To overcome this challenge, Jenkins often puts restrictions on himself, such as using only paper and no paint or ink. Jenkins’ process typically begins with the head of the figure, and he rarely sketches his designs. Instead, he works directly from his imagination, allowing the paper to guide him. The time it takes to complete a piece varies depending on the level of detail involved, but Jenkins often works on a request-by-request basis, creating sculptures for friends and community members. Despite being self-taught, Jenkins’ skills are evident in his work, which has been praised by fans of the horror genre. His love for the community aspect of horror is evident in his enthusiasm for attending events and creating pieces that bring joy to others. “I am inspired to make pieces that make my friends and clients happy,” Jenkins explained. “I want to spread that joy and keep art accessible.”

Jenkins’ involvement in the horror community is a testament to the power of creativity and community. His paper sculptures are a reminder that art can be accessible to anyone, regardless of skill level or background.

By attending the San Diego Fright-Mart event, fans of horror and paper sculpture can experience Jenkins’ unique art firsthand. With his emphasis on community and accessibility, Jenkins is an artist to watch, and his paper sculptures are sure to delight. Jenkins’ message to aspiring artists is clear: “To keep creating! Keep going!” With his passion for paper sculpture and horror, Jenkins is an inspiration to anyone looking to explore new creative avenues. Jenkins’ love for San Diego and its diverse art scene is evident in his work, which is a reflection of the city’s unique culture. “The community. I am a native San Diegan and I love the local scene,” he said. “There’s so much acceptance at shows and events. I love San Diego because we have so much diverse art and artists.”

In conclusion, Jimm Jenkins’ paper sculptures are a testament to the power of creativity and community. His involvement in the horror genre has not only shaped his artistic style but also provided a sense of belonging and purpose. By attending the San Diego Fright-Mart event, fans of horror and paper sculpture can experience Jenkins’ unique art firsthand and be inspired by his passion for creativity and community.