We recently connected with Andrea L. Jacobson and have shared our conversation below.
Andrea L., so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Imposter syndrome is something that ebs and flows. I don’t know if it ever goes completely away. But I think a key moment for me was when I realized that everyone who pushes themselves out of their comfort zone from time to time struggles with imposter syndrome. When you realize that we all have moments where we feel like we are imposters helps to just accept it as part of the human experience. There was a great saying that I came across years back that said, “If you are the smartest person in the room, find another room.” To grow, to be challenged, we have to get into things beyond our comfort and when we are uncomfortable, we may feel like imposters. So when I feel it creep in, I acknowledge the feeling, and remind myself that it means I am pushing myself to a new limit, and then let it go.
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 am a self-taught visual artist working mainly in oil paints. I work mainly in figurative works, creating intimate and detailed portraits with a strong floral element. This year I have signed with AnArte gallery in San Antonio, TX and am working on a new series.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Acceptance. As I began painting, acceptance, letting go of perfection and releasing judgement of my work, was key in allowing myself space to grow and learn. We should not strive for perfect. Perfect leaves no room for growth. We all have to start somewhere. Accept that you are only part of the way on your journey.
Dedication. I work full time and paint every night. I could very easily say that I do not have enough time or energy to paint. But I make time. At least 45 minutes a night. And that daily dedication has led to some dramatic increases in my skills. Whatever you love to do, dedicate yourself to it. Don’t allow yourself the excuse that there isn’t enough time. Review your schedule and where your time goes and remove the things that do not serve you.
Persistence. I keep at it, whatever it may be. I know what I want. I study relentlessly to gain new skills. I refuse to let others stand in my way.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I love collaborating with others. It is great for expanding the breadth and depth of my skills. There is something special that happens when two creative minds of different backgrounds come together. If you are an artist with a love of the natural world and want to collaborate, please reach out. You can find me on Instagram at @artistAndreaLJacobson. I would particularly be interested in working with someone in sculpture, installation, or other larger format mediums.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.worksbyalj.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artistandrealjacobson/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/worksbyalj
