Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Valencia Wilson. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Valencia, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
I get my resilience from my self-confidence, supportive relationships, and learning from adversity. Self-confidence has many definitions. Believing in yourself is one of them. Having the ability to believe in myself and my strengths boosts my resilience and helps me navigate setbacks with greater confidence. My supportive relationships provide a sense of belonging and are here during difficult times. Choosing to learn from challenges fosters resilience-building experiences.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am deeply inspired by the profound beauty of the natural world that surrounds us. My art is created from discarded plant materials and vintage frames. My name is Valencia, and I specialize in the creation of sustainable, living botanical artworks. With an unwavering passion for nature and a profound sense of responsibility towards the environment, I strive to create pieces that embody the wondrous splendor of life-giving elements. In my artistic practice, I predominantly utilize natural materials, carefully sourced and thought-interwoven to create living art that celebrates the inherent beauty and significance of Nature. Each piece I create is a testament to my commitment to sustainable creation, allowing the materials themselves to guide my artistic process. My process begins with choosing my materials with intention. I aim to create statement pieces that evolve in tandem with the environment, seamlessly integrating into their surroundings and inviting the viewer to witness the ever-changing cycles of life. My art is an ever-changing form of ephemeral art that lasts for about 2 to 3 years, but no one knows exactly how long it takes for a stick to decompose. My creations are imbued with a sense of eco-responsibility and charm, inviting viewers to be captivated by the vitality and artistry of Nature. By showcasing the inherent beauty of natural elements, I seek to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the environment and foster a renewed sense of wonder and respect for our natural world. By highlighting the delicate balance and intricate beauty of the living world, I hope to inspire others to reflect on their relationship with the environment and make conscious choices promoting its preservation. To show the beauty in a stick. To acknowledge that we need plants, plants don’t need us.
I currently have a piece on display at Tudor Place Ancestral Spaces exhibition from February 6th – April 21st located in the District of Columbia.
My first solo exhibition will be June 14th- June 24th at Homme Gallery in the District of Columbia.
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?
Networking, seeking opportunities, and putting myself out there has helped me grow my business and craft. The saying it’s not what you know but who you know is a strong statement. The more people you know who can help you the more opportunities you have. I try to attend at least one event to network. I’m extremely introverted, I make it a point to talk to at least three people then I can leave. By talk, I mean exchanging contact information as well. Seeking opportunities is necessary to make sure growth is consistent. There is no way to grow a business or craft without putting yourself out there. That’s the first step. The more I’ve put myself out there the more Plant Matter grows.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Having a circle of people surrounding me who all own their businesses or work in business has helped me overcome challenges. I’m a part of three organizations Pay the Artist Club, Black Girl Florist, and High Vibe Women. All organizations have been a haven when I need advice on pricing, technique, or even health insurance.
Contact Info:
- Website: plantmatter.art
- Instagram: plantmatter.art
- Facebook: Plant Matter
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valencia-wilson-a17495162?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BF6UIEC%2F5RLmUMGsEO7SFIQ%3D%3D
