Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Anna Wise. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Anna, so happy to have you with us today. You are such a creative person, but have you ever head any sort of creativity block along the way? If so, can you talk to us about how you overcame or beat it?
When I feel a creative block, I pick a painting that I’m proud of, and create a series off of that painting. I ask what makes this painting strong – theme? Color? Subject Matter? Once I know my favorite parts of the painting, I incorporate these elements into the new series. I find this is an attainable way to ignite creativity because you are taking something great that you’ve already done, and making it the prototype for something new.
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 mixed media artist and oil painter specializing in portraits and dreamscapes. I grew up in Birmingham, AL and moved to Nashville, TN in 2011. The meaning in my art is in the process – creating beauty from chaos. Through my work, I explore creativity and how it relates to identity, and celebrate idiosyncrasies that make us one of a kind. My goal is simple – to transform pain and chaos into beauty, and inspire others to see their lives as a canvas to do the same, even (and especially) when it means defying societal expectations.
I find this career exciting because there is always something new on the horizon – I am constantly pushing myself creatively and skill wise, and this keeps me highly. motivated and filled with purpose. This year I look forward to showcasing my work at major art fairs (such as Superfine) and am launching my first series of 2024 in February.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Creativity has always been my strongest suit – whether it’s through painting or solving problems in every day life. As an artist you have to think outside the box in order to make your mark. There’s no one size fits all path, and what works for one artist may not work for another. You have to find unique ways to put yourself out there. Some ways to exercise creativity are experimenting with a new art process, playing board games, even something as simple as painting with the opposite hand you usually paint with can help develop your “right brain”. I personally love to paint my wildest ideas, even when they dont initially make sense. When you ride the wave of intuition magical things can happen 🙂
Critical thinking has also played a big part in not only my artistic journey, and ties into creativity as well. Not just doing what you’re told or following a certain trajectory because someone else did it. Even the most well intentioned people may not always know what’s best for you and you have to stay true to who you are and follow your gut, even when it means going against popular opinion. It can take a while to hear that still small voice, but the more you try, the easier it gets.
Discipline is the most important of all. Talent is worthless without discipline. You can have a million ideas but if you don’t have the strength and will to follow through, you’ll never see them materialize. Discipline is perceived as a dirty word, but I find it empowering because it ensures you of a good outcome. Say you’ll do something and then do it – it’s just that simple. Small consistent steps made daily will be followed by big changes down the road.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
I’ve always struggled big time with imposter syndrome. I have a tendency to self sabotage when things begin going well or when I hit certain milestones because I have a fear that I’m not worthy or I’m not the person people think I am.
It’s remember that imposter syndrome is just a feeling, and feelings are just that – feelings. They are great when they feel nice but they also lie to us daily. And they come and go. Just like all feelings, this too shall pass. I’ll pray for guidance, wisdom, and objectivity, then distract myself by taking a walk or staying busy somehow until the feeling fades.
I also keep myself “accountable” with close friends, who know my heart and intentions, and asking them for clarity when I’m being overcritical of myself and experiencing self doubt. This helps keep me grounded in reality and gives me an objective point of view.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.annathewiser.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/annathewiser.art
