R.I.P. Jazz / Sparklefur / Sparkleanimal
2004-2026
I wanted to make this post in honor of an artist and mutual who has inspired me a lot over the years. Earlier today, through a post by their partner (please give them some support if you can), I found out that Jazz (also known as Sparklefur or Sparkleanimal across various social media) had passed away recently.
I was not personally close to them, but I looked up to them a lot- their art was full of life, detail and passion. Bright and colorful creatures were their specialty, and I deeply admired how they managed to work in many different styles and with many different characters.
We had been following each other since around 2018/19, doing several art trades over this time period. It was fun to see how our styles developed with each trade and I was hoping we would get a chance to do more of them together.
I would like to share the wonderful pieces they have made for me, in chronological order:
This first one was made in 2019. I adore the colors they chose and how they portrayed my fursona- it's very accurate to the character.
The second piece, created in 2020 has a whole different vibe! Still of the same character, but this time he got sparkle-fied (as I told them to have fun with the colors and do whatever they'd like). It's very trippy to look at. Super cool stuff!
For our last trade in 2023, Jazz made something a little different... a whole alternate design for my fursona! I can tell a lot of thought and care went into this, just like with everything they created. There are so many fun details to discover in this ref sheet.
I cherish all of these pieces. I can tell how much they cared about making something that represents me and my characters well. I can tell how much they cared about everyone they encountered.
Jazz, I wish we had gotten a chance to get to know each other more. I wish you had known how much you matter. How many people cared about you. How many minds you inspired. Wherever you may be now, I hope you are finally at peace.
You will not be forgotten.
🌈🐾
