We were lucky to catch up with Boyd Smith recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Boyd , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
My journey towards finding my purpose began during my undergraduate Art course, where I experienced the profound impact of art as a limitless form of expression and creativity. This realization marked a significant turning point, shaping my understanding of what truly resonated with me. Over the years, I’ve explored various avenues that fostered self-discovery, ultimately reaffirming that art was my true calling—it never felt like work, but rather a fulfilling outlet for my creativity. Despite encountering skepticism along the way, each completed project bolstered my confidence and fueled my determination to surpass my previous achievements. A pivotal moment occurred during my first art show when a seasoned artist recognized my potential and encouraged me to pursue my unique niche. This validation ignited my commitment to realizing my artistic aspirations. As I ventured into entrepreneurship with my first art gallery, I discovered strengths in business and innovation, further affirming my belief in the power of creativity and vision. Throughout this journey, I’ve embraced challenges as opportunities for growth, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. My passion lies in merging fine arts with technology, honoring both tradition and innovation. Moving forward, my goal is to continue evolving, learning, and adapting, driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to creativity in all its forms.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I currently serve as the Curator at the United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum in Colorado Springs, a position I’ve held for the past four years. In my capacity as curator, my responsibilities encompass receiving and managing artifacts, as well as creating exhibitions that showcase the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic movement.
What I find most exhilarating about my role is the chance to collaborate with athletes and shape the narrative of the movement, allowing me to share the rich history of their work. Working with rare and special artifacts, I am a visual storyteller, weaving together the stories that make up the vibrant tapestry of the Olympic and Paralympic journey.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities are pivotal: perseverance, embracing constructive criticism while staying true to authenticity, and actively seeking visibility by seizing opportunities.
For those in the early stages of their journey, I advise staying prepared and open to new opportunities. Avoid confining yourself to a narrow path; be adaptable and ready to explore diverse possibilities.
Looking back over the past 12 months or so, what do you think has been your biggest area of improvement or growth?
Over the past year, I’ve experienced significant growth and acquired valuable insights into adapting and managing the intricate aspects of developing exhibition content. Learning to trust both the process and my team has been crucial, recognizing that each member has a distinct role to contribute to our success.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.beadslab.com
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/boydsmith11
Image Credits
Boyd Smith
