Jennifer Axner

Jenny was a Journeyman Banknote Picture Engraver at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP). She completed a 10 year apprenticeship prior to earning her title of Journeyman, the highest in the craft. She was an accomplished Engraver, instrumental in both the daily production of United States currency, as well as training Apprentice Engravers in the craft of banknote engraving. She engraved the BEP's official portraits of Treasury Secretaries Lew and Munuchin. In addition to working on engravings for new currency designs, she most recently engraved the official portrait of President Biden.
Jennifer's dedication to art was unparalleled. In 2016, she created the weekly Hyattsville Figure Drawing group, which expanded to two sessions per week. Jennifer held to traditional atelier method, so that everyone would achieve the highest level of art experience. This is the only drawing group that would sit for three hours, and go out afterwards to talk, creating a true community of artists. Members attended out of curiosity for an art experience, but immediately after meeting Jenny, realized they were coming for her.
In 2012, Jennifer won the City of Hyattsville design contest for the Route 1 Ride bus wraparound. She also won the City of Hyattsville contest for the design of traffic box art wraps. In addition, Jennifer served on jury for local art (mural by West Hyattsville metro), and hosted pottery and fiber arts sales at her house to feature handmade art by local artists.
Jennifer helped and supported everything art related in her community. From volunteering to mentoring, her capacity to be there for others was exceptional. Jennifer often said her perfect day is anything with art/drawing.
Jennifer was the devoted partner of Milena; adored daughter to Gary and Sandy; the cherished sister of Sarah (Adam Gilmore) and Jeffrey (Amber), and was a loving aunt to Ava and Ethan. Jennifer was the most gracious person, and the best among us. She would never allow herself to be in the spotlight, and would highlight everyone else. Jennifer was truly unique.
Services Thursday, April 18 at 12 noon at the Lake View Cemetery (meet at Mayfield Rd. Gate). Family will receive friends at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Adam Gilmore, Beachwood, OH after services. Contributions are suggested to the Pyramid Atlantic Art Center (pyramidatlanticartcenter.org). Arrangements under the direction of Berkowitz-Kumin-Bookatz Memorial Chapel.