Cecilia Jane shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Cecilia, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Lately, I’ve been enjoying creating gouache paintings with a bright magenta underpainting. It sounds kind of wild to have that color be your base color, but it breathes such a playful, fun life into the end result.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Cecilia Schmitt, but I usually go by my artist name Cecilia Jane. I’m a designer and artist located in Chicago, IL and I currently work as a designer at ALDI. I work on their trend stories, as well as product designs and surface designs. So the fun aisle in your ALDI that has leggings, stock pots, towels, book bags and more: I probably helped design it! I love my job at ALDI because I help to design products that are accessible to a wide range of people and are also very affordable and trend-forward! Outside of work, I have many side quests, including contributing to comic anthologies, writing short stories, painting surreal, nature-inspired works, and co-owning the Her Artist Collective, a group that uplifts female-identifying artists and creates opportunities for all through galleries and other creative-focused events.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
One of my greatest mentors was and is my middle school art teacher, Bob Donovan. Middle school is a tough time for anyone, but especially for the eclectic art kid who has a chaotic home life. Bob encouraged my creativity and gave me a safe space to nurture my talents. The art room felt like home, and I found myself trying to escape there anytime I could. I think at the time I just thought drawing was a fun escape, but Bob would tell me countless stories of his successful artist friends, and really made me believe that art could be more than just a hobby.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Truthfully, I would say to just be kinder and more gracious to myself because I deserve it. I think artists are always their worst critics, and the world can be tricky enough on its own. You have to be your biggest cheerleader; you have to believe in yourself. Self-doubt and overthinking are things I’ve always struggled with (though they’ve definitely gotten better over the years!), but I try to remind myself to trust my gut and believe I can do anything I set my mind to.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
As corny as it sounds, my truth is just to be myself. I try to live what an authentic life means to me: pursuing interests that pique my curiosity, trying new things, keeping schedules that help me stay balanced, and always pushing myself to grow while still being gracious to myself.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. Have you ever gotten what you wanted, and found it did not satisfy you?
I have. I’ve come to realize that most of the time, it’s the chase and pursuit of the goal that is satisfying, rarely the end result. I think I was satisfied for a bit, but I always start thinking of the next goal. A book I read once mentioned how it’s really important to do reflections on what you’ve accomplished over time and look back at it. I run an accountability group, and at least once a year we compile all of the goals we’ve achieved and throw a little celebration.That celebration is a helpful reminder to be proud of what the past me has accomplished and not take it for granted.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ceciliajaneart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceciliajaneart/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cecilia-schmitt-2b44a1225/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPHXkg1chjIVlatIdPD4J7A?app=desktop
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