We recently connected with Ruei Shah and have shared our conversation below.
Ruei, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
Growing up in India, I was immersed in values that emphasize kindness, seeing the good in people, self-confidence, and prioritizing education and family above all else. These core principles have profoundly influenced my perspective on life and have been instrumental in shaping my approach to creating illustrations and art.
I firmly believe that our experiences and how we navigate through them define who we are. In addition, I hold a strong conviction in the power of optimism. Maintaining a positive outlook enables us to confront challenges with resilience and creativity, fostering personal growth and enriching our endeavours in art and creativity.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
In the heart of Hobby Lobby’s bustling paper crafts department, I find my creative sanctuary. Surrounded by stacks of colorful paper and shelves brimming with stickers, I dive into the world of graphic design each day.
Working alongside a team of fellow artisans, we bring visions to life, crafting planners, stickers, and paper packs that spark joy in the hearts of crafters everywhere. But my artistic journey doesn’t end there.
Beyond the confines of my day job, I embark on my own creative odyssey as an independent illustrator. From the pages of enchanting children’s books to the intricacies of designing elegant wedding invitations, I weave tales with every stroke of my pen.
Balancing the demands of my full-time role with the freedom of freelance work is no small feat. Yet, it’s a challenge I embrace wholeheartedly, navigating deadlines and design dilemmas with a steadfast resolve.
Through it all, one thing remains constant: the joy of knowing that my creations bring happiness to those who behold them. Whether it’s a small family cherishing a personalized piece or a renowned brand entrusting me with their vision, each customer’s satisfaction is a testament to the power of creativity and connection. And in their smiles, I find the true essence of my craft—a story unfolding, one design at a time.
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?
Looking back on my journey, three qualities have stood out as particularly influential: honesty, a readiness to learn and adapt, and recognition of my value.
To begin with, honesty has played a pivotal role. Maintaining truthfulness in my actions and decisions has helped me foster trust with others and uphold integrity in my work. It’s crucial to resist the temptation of shortcuts, as they can hinder progress rather than aid it.
Secondly, an ongoing willingness to learn and adapt has been invaluable. The world is in a constant state of evolution, and embracing new skills and knowledge ensures that I remain relevant and effective in my pursuits. Each opportunity to learn is an investment in my growth, never to be underestimated or squandered.
Lastly, understanding my value has been pivotal, particularly in the realm of freelancing. Recognizing my worth has empowered me to establish clear boundaries, create equitable contracts, and ensure that I am justly compensated for my efforts. This self-awareness is crucial for navigating the complexities of freelancing and cultivating mutually beneficial relationships with clients.
For those embarking on their journey, my advice is straightforward: prioritize honesty in all your endeavours, maintain a mindset of continual learning and adaptation, and never underestimate your value. Stay true to your principles, remain open to new experiences, and advocate for yourself in every professional interaction. With these principles as your guide, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the twists and turns of your unique journey.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Absolutely! I’m eagerly seeking collaboration opportunities with fashion and lifestyle brands as well as children’s book publishers. For fashion and lifestyle brands, I’m excited to lend my illustration skills to create captivating visuals that align with your brand identity and resonate with your audience. Likewise, for children’s book publishers, I’m passionate about bringing stories to life through enchanting illustrations that will captivate young readers and inspire their imaginations.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your brand’s visual storytelling or breathe life into your children’s stories, I’m here to collaborate and bring your visions to fruition. If you’re interested in exploring potential projects or discussing how we can work together, please feel free to reach out to me through my website or email. I can’t wait to connect and embark on creative journeys together!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rueishah.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/totocactus_rueishah/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruei-shah-aa6802173/
