Jessica O’Brien is a British photographer based in Bristol, the West of England.

Jessica O'Brien is a visual artist working across photography and mixed media whose photographic practice spans documentary, portrait, and event photography, alongside the use of textiles and traditional Palestinian embroidery. Having graduated with a BA in Photography from the University of the West of England, her work explores human connection, collective and personal histories, and the stories that shape our understanding of identity and belonging.

Working with empathy and sensitivity, Jessica places relationships at the heart of her practice, seeking to build meaningful connections with the people she photographs. From intimate portraits of Jean, to a documentary series exploring the regulars of a Bristol pub, her work draws attention to the people, places, and quiet moments that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Alongside her personal projects, Jessica takes on photography commissions; documenting events, communities, and the connections formed between people. Her commissioned work includes documenting the Wadajir Project in collaboration with ALIBSA, capturing its activities and engagement with the Somali community in Easton, Bristol.

Her ongoing mixed-media project, Shajaret Al Zaitoun (The Olive Tree), brings together photography and traditional Palestinian embroidery to explore heritage, memory, and family histories across generations and cultures. Drawing on her Palestinian partner’s family history alongside her own, the work reflects on how identity and belonging are shaped through relationships and shared experience.

The project has been exhibited at Arnolfini in Bristol and Copeland Gallery in London. The work is available for sale and enquiries.