We recently connected with Jules Bowman and have shared our conversation below.
Jules, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
As a multiracial woman, I’m usually the only one in the room who looks like me, but for most of my life, my race wasn’t something I paid much attention to. It wasn’t until I became a mother that I started to see the importance of identity in a clearer light. Watching my son navigate his own minority upbringing made me more aware of the complexities and nuances that come with it.
In the same way that I navigate the various dimensions of my identity, I’ve also learned to balance living between seemingly different professions —as an artist and a yoga instructor while also building a career in finance. Each of these spaces requires a different part of me, and at times, I’ve felt like I didn’t fully belong in any one of them. It’s given me a unique ability to view things from multiple perspectives. Being an artist requires creativity, vulnerability, and emotional expression, while finance is all structure, logic, and precision. Yoga, on the other hand, brings mindfulness, finding comfort in discomfort, and a sense of groundedness. The in-between space is where I find my authentic self and have found my strength. It’s in that space where I’ve learned to trust my voice, knowing that my individuality can offer a valuable perspective.
And while my race or my career blend doesn’t define me, I do recognize the power of representation. I advocate for inclusivity and enjoy helping create spaces where people from all backgrounds and walks of life can feel seen and valued. I believe that by embracing the uniqueness of who we are, we naturally create space for others to do the same. Ultimately, my success comes from embracing all the parts of who I am—and bringing my whole self into whatever room I’m in.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I’m passionate about using art to spark connection and self-reflection, both on a personal level and within communities. Right now, I’m drawing inspiration from artists like Bisa Butler and Valerie June, whose works explore powerful themes of identity, culture, and storytelling. After seeing them speak in person, I was profoundly moved by how they channel their unique experiences into their art. Their ability to weave personal history and cultural narrative into such compelling forms has inspired me to push my own work further and, in my next series, to embrace spaces I haven’t always had the courage to explore.
I’m currently working on several exciting collaborations, including cover art for an author’s next book and a mural for Crosslake Coffee in northern Minnesota. I continue to partner with Becoming Together, a therapy practice in Eden Prairie that utilizes various modalities to support healing and personal growth.
Looking ahead, I’ll be creating a mural for The Grind MPLS in North Loop, Minneapolis in 2025, and I’m in the early stages of planning a collaboration for a mural festival event set for 2027. These projects allow me to expand my artistic reach while connecting with diverse communities in meaningful ways, reflecting my personal brand. Whether through visual storytelling, mindfulness, or community partnerships, I’m committed to using my work to inspire, uplift, and bring people together.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, three qualities of mine that have been most impactful have been: 1) Adaptability – Being able to move between different environments and the ability to adjust to different circumstances, industries, and mindsets has allowed me to thrive, even in unfamiliar settings. 2) Vulnerability – Particularly in my work as an artist and yoga instructor, I’ve learned that embracing vulnerability allows for deeper connection, authenticity and growth. 3) Resilience –Whether it’s overcoming obstacles in my personal life or facing professional hurdles, the ability to keep going and learn from setbacks has been invaluable.
As far as advice, I say: embrace change rather than resist it. Expose yourself to new experiences and adapt to different situations. Allow yourself to be seen as imperfect. Vulnerability leads to deeper connections. View setbacks as opportunities for growth.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Yes! I am always open to exploring new partnerships and collaborations. I’m particularly interested in working with individuals or organizations who share a passion for wellness, inclusivity, and making a meaningful community impact. Collaborations that intersect art, yoga, and mental wellness are especially compelling to me. I love to engage in projects that foster positive change!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bowman-creatif.com
- Instagram: bowman_creatif
Image Credits
Headshot/Portrait – Stephanie Morris | Sepiaqueen Photography
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