Meet Elizabeth Jia

We were lucky to catch up with Elizabeth Jia recently and have shared our conversation below.

Elizabeth, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

I often find myself as the only one in the room—being an Asian woman with a completely different cultural background. However, thanks to my courage, I view this experience as more empowering than challenging. Here’s how I’ve navigated those situations effectively:

Confidence and Authenticity: I’ve always embraced my identity and used it as a source of strength. By being confident in myself and sharing my unique perspective, the point is not to stand out but to create opportunities for others to see value in diversity. I love to inspire others with sincerity.

Embracing Adventure: I thrive on new experiences and view challenges as adventures. This mindset allows me to approach unfamiliar environments with curiosity rather than fear. Even when I’m the only one in the room, I believe we have more in common than differences, and I actively seek ways to connect with others through shared interests or collaborative projects. This approach makes it easier to bridge any gaps.

Optimism as a Tool: I maintain a positive outlook, which helps me stay resilient. A professor from a Business school inspired me long ago, but I still remember, “Always dress up rather than dress down.” Even in tough situations, I focus on the possibilities rather than the obstacles. This optimism not only motivates me but can also inspire those around me, creating a more inclusive atmosphere.

Continuous Learning: I believe knowledge is empowering. I invest time in learning about various cultures and perspectives, as well as honing my skills. Confucius said, “When three are walking together, I am sure to find someone who can teach me.” This wisdom resonates with me as I engage in meaningful dialogues with colleagues, fostering understanding and collaboration.

Building Relationships: I make an effort to connect with others, seeking mentors and allies who appreciate diverse viewpoints. By establishing these relationships, I create a support network that helps amplify my voice and experiences.

In summary, my journey as an Asian woman has taught me to embrace my uniqueness, approach challenges with curiosity, maintain an optimistic outlook, invest in learning, and build strong relationships. These strategies have not only helped me navigate being the only one in the room but have also contributed to my success in various endeavors.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’m excited to share my latest artistic endeavor: an ongoing oil pastel painting project that I launched in June 2024. This collection features 99 vibrant expressions where creativity truly meets color. Each artwork is more than just a visual feast; it’s a narrative waiting to be discovered.
Each piece in this collection is a window into moments of beauty and emotion, from striking landscapes to intimate portraits. These artworks, created with rich, textured layers and bold strokes, are not just visually appealing; they resonate with the viewer on an emotional level. They delve into themes such as globalization, the serene simplicity of nature, complex histories, and the ongoing dialogue of justice, challenging viewers to contemplate the complexities of history and the pursuit of understanding what truly defines civilization.
The most thrilling aspect of this project is the exploration of the boundless potential of oil pastels, which enable me to express a wide spectrum of emotions and experiences. I warmly invite you to join me on this artistic journey, where I strive to inspire and evoke wonder with each meticulously crafted creation. Together, let’s uncover the stories behind each painting as they unfold, offering you a glimpse of the world through my eyes and imagination.
Stay tuned for upcoming events and opportunities to engage with my work as I continue to expand this collection and share the joy of art with a broader audience.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Reflecting on my journey, courage, curiosity, and emotional intelligence have had the greatest impact on me.
Courage: Taking risks and facing challenges head-on has been crucial. There will always be moments of doubt, but maintaining a strong sense of purpose has helped me move forward. My advice for those early in their journey is to view fears as opportunities for growth. Embrace discomfort, take bold steps, and use the lessons learned to fuel your progress.
Curiosity: A genuine desire to learn and explore has driven my creativity. Curiosity opens doors to new ideas and experiences, enriching both personal and professional growth. For those starting out, I recommend cultivating a habit of asking questions and seeking knowledge from various sources. Attend workshops, read widely, and engage with diverse communities to broaden your perspective.
Emotional Intelligence: Understanding and managing my emotions and empathizing with others has been vital in building relationships and navigating challenges. To develop emotional intelligence, one should practice self-reflection and active listening. Take the time to understand your own feelings and those of others, which will enhance your communication skills and foster stronger connections.
For anyone beginning their journey, I encourage you to focus on these qualities. Embrace courage in facing challenges, nurture your curiosity, and develop emotional intelligence. These attributes will not only help you navigate obstacles but also enrich your experiences and interactions along the way.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

I am always looking for partners to collaborate on various projects because I believe that art should serve as a bridge to connect people. One exciting collaboration in the works is with a French artist. She plans to depict Louis XIV, known as the Sun King, while I will paint Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty. Their historical correspondence symbolizes a friendship that knows no boundaries—something I want to reflect in our modern artistic exchange.
I’m particularly interested in collaborating with artists, historians, or anyone passionate about exploring cultural narratives and connections through art. Whether you’re a visual artist, writer, or involved in cultural projects, I’d love to hear your ideas on how we can create something meaningful together.
If you’re interested in collaborating, please feel free to reach out to me through my website: www.theelizabethart.com or connect with me on Instagram: “theelizabethart”. Let’s explore the endless possibilities of artistic collaboration and continue to build bridges through our work!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.theelizabethart.com
• Instagram: THEELIZABETHART