We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Elise Kaneshiro. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Elise below.
Elise, we are so happy that our community is going to have a chance to learn more about you, your story and hopefully even take in some of the lessons you’ve learned along the way. Let’s start with self-care – what do you do for self-care and has it had any impact on your effectiveness?
My self-care regimen is a holistic blend of physical, mental, and spiritual practices. Central to this approach is my spiritual discipline, which includes prayer, meditation, and reading the Bible. Prayer forms the cornerstone of my daily routine, providing a profound connection with God. It is a source of strength, guidance, and comfort, allowing me to express my deepest thoughts and feelings to the Lord.
Meditation complements my prayer life, offering moments of stillness and introspection. This practice helps to center my thoughts and brings a sense of calm and clarity, which is crucial for mental wellness.
Reading the Bible is integral to my spiritual nourishment. It provides wisdom and insight, guiding me in living a life aligned with Biblical principles. The scriptures are a constant source of inspiration, shaping my worldview and actions.
In addition to these spiritual practices, I engage in physical activities like snorkeling and creative expressions like painting. These activities not only foster physical health but also provide mental relaxation and an outlet for expressing creativity.
This holistic approach to self-care has significantly enhanced my effectiveness in all areas of life. It keeps me balanced, focused, and grounded, enabling me to pursue my goals and passions with vigor and purpose. By nurturing my body, mind, and spirit, I am better equipped to live a fulfilling life and inspire others through my work.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am deeply immersed in the world of art, where I primarily focus on nonrepresentational painting and abstract expressionism, as well as mixed media and collage. My art is not just a form of expression; it’s a journey of exploration and connection with the broader themes of life and spirituality. Recently, I’ve taken a significant step in my artistic career by moving my painting studio to the Brehm Center. This move represents a new chapter, offering a space that fosters creativity, collaboration, and deeper engagement with the artistic community.
In addition to painting, I am excited to announce that I am expanding into the realm of jewelry design. My unique jewelry pieces, which reflect the same creativity and passion as my paintings, will soon be available wholesale to boutiques. This venture is particularly thrilling as it allows me to explore a new dimension of artistic expression and share my work with a broader audience.
Looking ahead, there are more exciting developments on the horizon. I am in the process of launching new products this year, so I encourage everyone to stay tuned. These new offerings will not only showcase my artistic evolution but also aim to inspire and connect with people on a deeper level.
My art and upcoming endeavors are more than just a profession; they are an expression of my soul’s journey. Each piece, whether a painting or a jewelry design, carries a part of my story and vision. I am passionate about sharing this journey with others and hope that my work resonates with and inspires those who encounter it.
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?
Reflecting on my journey, the three most impactful elements that have significantly influenced my path are a commitment to excellence, strong organizational skills, and a deep understanding of the performing arts.
Commitment to Excellence: My guiding principle has been to strive for excellence in whatever I am doing. It’s about putting your heart and soul into your work, ensuring that every detail reflects your best effort. For those early in their journey, my advice is to always strive to be the best in whatever you are doing. Be faithful in the little things, as excellence is a habit, not an act.
Organizational Skills: Effective organization has been crucial in managing the various facets of my career. Keeping everything in order, even in the smallest details that might go unnoticed, creates a foundation for success. For those starting out, I recommend developing a system that works for you. Be diligent in organizing your tasks, time, and resources. A well-organized approach leads to efficiency and productivity, allowing you to focus more on your endeavors.
Performing Life unto God: My understanding of the performing arts is deeply intertwined with my faith. I view my performance in life and art as an act of worship, offering myself as a humble sacrifice to God. This perspective transforms how I approach my art, infusing it with a deeper purpose and meaning. For anyone entering this field, I encourage you to see your artistic expression as a way to honor and glorify God, turning each performance into a testament of your faith.
These elements have not only shaped my professional journey but also my personal growth. Cultivating these qualities and this mindset can be transformative, empowering you to live and create with purpose and devotion.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
The book that has played the most important role in my development is undoubtedly the Bible. It’s a source of eternal wisdom, guidance, and inspiration. Among its many profound teachings, a few stand out for their deep, enduring impact on my life.
A significant teaching comes from John 3:16:
For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.
This verse not only promises eternal life but also reminds us that this eternal life impacts us now. It speaks to living a life anointed and protected, guided by faith and God’s love in our daily journey.
From the Old Testament, the affirmation of creation in Genesis 1:31 has been particularly impactful:
And God saw everything that He had made, and behold, it was very good.
This verse reminds me of the inherent goodness and beauty in God’s creation. It underscores the value of all that surrounds us and the importance of recognizing the good in our own lives and work.
Lastly, the teaching of Jesus about the lilies of the field in Matthew 6:28-29:
And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
This passage teaches trust and reliance on God. It reminds me that God provides for all our needs and encourages a life of faith free from undue worry.
The Bible, through these and many other teachings, has been a cornerstone in my personal and professional development. It continually guides my decisions, shapes my worldview, and influences my art and life’s work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://elise.love/blog/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elisehatsuko
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@elisehatsuko
Image Credits
Sarah Ertle
