Jen Bradford was raised in Maine, which is a continual source of inspiration. She lived in Scotland for four years, earning an MA in art history from the University of St. Andrews. She later studied painting at the Maine College of Art, which provided a solid foundation in drawing and 2D design. In Portland, Bradford exhibited her work at The Hay Gallery, Aucocisco Gallery, and June Fitzpatrick Gallery.

Bradford moved to New York in 2003. Her paintings have been shown at LoRiver Gallery, mART, Germaine Keller Gallery, Van Brunt Gallery and Hudson Beach Glass, among others. Her work was featured on the cover of Chronogram in 2005.

She lives in Beacon, NY with her cocker spaniel Busy.