We recently connected with Catilla Smith and have shared our conversation below.
Catilla, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
How I Keep creativity alive is by acquiring a mix of practices, that’s both inspiration and curiosity. Here are a few ways I stay creatively engaged:
1. **Embrace Curiosity**: I am constantly exploring new ideas, topics, and skills. I like to read books, watch documentaries, and attend workshops to discover fresh perspectives.
2. **Set Aside Time for Creative Play**: I naturally schedule time for unstructured creativity, whether it’s drawing, writing, or crafting. I Let go of perfectionism during this time, that lead to breakthroughs.
3. **Surround Myself with Inspiration**: I curate my environment to spark creativity, by displaying art, quotes, or objects that inspire me. I spend time in nature or visit museums for new sensory experiences.
4. **Collaborate and Share Ideas**: I engage with other creatives through discussions, projects, or collaborations. Seeing how others approach problems ignites some of my new ideas.
5. **Stay Curious and Challenge myself**: I try new techniques, mediums, or activities outside of my comfort zone. Experimentation keeps my creative muscles active and flexible.
6. **Reflect and Rest**: Creativity also needs rest, & so I like to take breaks to recharge, and reflect on what excites and motivates me creatively.
These practices help keep my mind fresh, adaptable, and inspired.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am a dynamic artistic director and entrepreneur whose journey reflects a unique blend of creativity and academic rigor. I take an innovative approach to art and education. My understanding of science, history, and the human condition has enhanced my artistic perspective, allowing me to create work that is not only visually compelling but intellectually stimulating. As an entrepreneur, I host paint parties, where I guide participants in creating their own masterpieces in a relaxed social environment. These events not only promote creativity but also foster a sense of community and shared experience.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back at my journey as an artist, instructor, and philanthropist, three impactful qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge might include:
1. **Adaptability and Versatility**: Balancing multiple roles as an artist, instructor, and philanthropist required me to be flexible. I had to adjust to different environments, whether teaching diverse groups or creating art for various audiences.
**Advice**: For those early in their journey, embrace opportunities that take you out of your comfort zone. Try different mediums, teaching styles, or philanthropic projects to build a wide skill set and be open to learning from different experiences.
2. **Community Engagement**: Philanthropy and teaching often thrive on a strong sense of connection with the community. This could involve hosting paint parties, participating in art shows, or working with local organizations to bring art to more people.
**Advice**: Build strong community relationships by volunteering, attending art events, or collaborating on local initiatives. Start small, with a focus on the impact of your work, and let your passion for helping others drive your engagement.
3. **Creative and Analytical Thinking**: I have a background in criminal justice and forensic science suggests that combining creative expression with analytical skills helped shape my approach to art. A blend of logical thinking and creativity enhanced my teaching and philanthropic endeavors.
**Advice**: To develop this, explore the intersections of different fields. Whether it’s through study, experimentation, or conversation, finding connections between seemingly unrelated disciplines will give your art a unique edge.
For those just starting out, blending creativity with community involvement and adaptability will help you build a fulfilling and impactful career.
What would you advise – going all in on your strengths or investing on areas where you aren’t as strong to be more well-rounded?
I think there’s merit in both approaches, but it depends on your goals and the context. Going all-in on your strengths can lead to mastery and distinction in your field, while investing in areas you aren’t as strong in helps you become more adaptable and versatile. My view is that you should focus primarily on your strengths but also devote time to shoring up key weaknesses, especially if those weaknesses might limit your growth.
By maximizing your strengths, you stand out in a competitive environment. Many people achieve success because they double down on what makes them exceptional, which can be crucial in industries that reward specialization. For example, Michael Jordan was naturally gifted at basketball. While he worked tirelessly to improve, he didn’t split his focus between unrelated skills. He invested in being the best in basketball, which earned him legendary status. Similarly, in business or creative endeavors, leaning into what you’re great at allows you to rise quickly and impactfully.
However, being well-rounded can be essential for leadership and personal growth. When I first started working with creative people, I found that some of them were brilliant artists but struggled with communication or organization. While they were excellent at their craft, their inability to navigate other areas held them back from bigger opportunities. I had to encourage them to improve these weaker areas to move forward professionally.
This is why I think it’s about balance—pursue excellence in your core strengths, but don’t ignore key areas that can help you become more well-rounded. A blend of mastery and versatility can lead to both personal fulfillment and career success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/artdelashae/?etsrc=sdt&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZyzN3tMhLevmRcD53ve1hPHSEM2DnYvUB-tiXr2zRO5SHU1_bxtl2m4Y8_aem_p0a_kEipoBxtzqB29E7UUw
- Instagram: art_de_lashae
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