We were lucky to catch up with Jaede Bayala recently and have shared our conversation below.
Jaede, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
I’m constantly working on building my confidence. As an artist, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others and feeling like you’re not good enough. Over time, I’ve learned to focus on appreciating my own growth and celebrating every accomplishment, no matter how big or small. I also make it a point to stay excited about my work. If I ever lose that excitement, I ask myself what changes I can make to reignite it. There will always be ups and downs, but I’ve realized that the key is not to let the downs linger for too long.
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 non-binary Puerto Rican artist based in Kansas City. I use a broad range of mediums to serve as a bridge to engage a diverse audience. The core of my work revolves around themes of identity, culture, and the natural world. I am currently pursuing a BFA in Painting at the Kansas City Art Institute. Being at an art school has provided me with a wealth of opportunities. I have interned with local galleries and even had my work showcased throughout the painting department and locally. Right now I am focusing on developing my studio practice and preparing for my final year at the art institute. I am excited to see how my work continues to develop, and what new ventures come my way!
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?
The three skills that have had the greatest impact on my journey are kindness, self-motivation, and vulnerability. Kindness, not just toward others but toward yourself, is essential. It’s often easier to show compassion to others while being hard on yourself but learning to take things slow during tough times can make the process of healing and growth much easier. Self-motivation is crucial as an artist because there will inevitably be moments when you doubt your abilities. Staying driven helps you push through those challenges. Lastly, vulnerability plays a vital role—not only in creating meaningful work but also in having the courage to ask for help when you need it.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
My family is my greatest support system and my biggest source of motivation. They’ve stood by me through countless challenges and are always there to listen when I need them. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without their love and encouragement.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jaedebayala.com
- Instagram: @jaedes_destiny
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
