We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Saphera Peters. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Saphera below.
Saphera, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
In 2023, I decided to make “resilience” my word of the year, mainly because I took the leap into doing art full time. Going all-in meant putting myself out there, getting clients, and trying to build my brand. I knew that with more exposure would come more rejection, but I was so hell-bent on making my dream happen that I couldn’t let it knock me down for long. The determination to turn my artistic passion into a full-blown reality became a part of who I am. When faced with setbacks, bouncing back wasn’t just an option; it was the only way forward. Every “no” I encountered just felt like another step toward that big, game-changing “yes.” My journey in art has become this ongoing story of resilience, and I’ve learned to roll with the punches as I chase my dreams.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Hey there, I’m Saphera Peters (or Saf), an illustrator based in Brampton, Canada, who brings joy to others through vibrant colours and dynamic compositions inspired by my South Asian culture.
In 2019 I invested in an iPad and dedicated an entire year to honing my drawing skills. Whether it was 20 minutes or 2 hours a day, I committed myself to consistent practice and improvement. Little did I know that this venture would ignite my love for digital art and illustration, propelling me forward to find my purpose in the world – to spark joy through art.
Growing up in a South Asian Household, art and creativity were often seen as mere distractions. However, as I discovered my true passion for art through my 365-day challenge, I had to break free from those beliefs and embrace my identity as a creative entrepreneur. I had to remind myself that pursuing my artistic aspirations didn’t make me a failure; instead, it required courage to go against the norms I was taught.
Today, I am proud to be a full-time illustrator, representing the minority women in creative fields that were lacking during my own upbringing. Whether it’s adorning public spaces with my art or crafting uplifting greeting cards, my ultimate goal is to bring smiles to people’s faces.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
As a creative pursuing a full-time career in art, I believe three key qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge were particularly impactful in my journey:
Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks, rejection, or challenges has been crucial. Embracing resilience allowed me to persevere in the face of difficulties and maintain momentum in my creative pursuits.
Advice: Early on, it’s essential to understand that setbacks are part of the journey. Embrace challenges as learning opportunities, stay persistent, and cultivate a mindset that views obstacles as stepping stones toward growth.
Marketing and Branding: Building a personal brand and effectively marketing my art played a significant role in gaining visibility and attracting clients. Understanding how to showcase my work, create a distinctive brand, and connect with my target audience has been instrumental.
Advice: Invest time in learning about marketing strategies, social media platforms, and personal branding. Consistency in presenting your unique style and engaging with your audience can help create a strong online presence.
Networking and Community Building: Establishing connections within the art community and beyond has been invaluable. Networking has opened doors to collaborations, opportunities, and a supportive community that understands the challenges and joys of a creative career.
Advice: Attend art events, engage with fellow artists online, and participate in communities relevant to your niche. Building a network not only provides valuable insights but also offers a support system that can be crucial during both highs and lows.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was their consistent push and unwavering support in my career endeavors. From the very beginning, they recognized my passion and dreams, and instead of imposing their expectations, they became my biggest advocates. Their encouragement served as a powerful driving force, instilling in me the confidence to pursue my goals and take risks.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sapherapeters.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sapherapeters/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saphera-peters/
- Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/sapherapeters/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sapherapeters
Image Credits
Mithea M. Herman Custodio
