Meet J Erin

We were lucky to catch up with J Erin recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi J, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?

I developed my confidence and self-esteem through my art. At first, sharing my work felt incredibly vulnerable, but each time I did, I realized how much people connected with it. That validation—and the courage to express myself honestly—helped me grow more confident, not just as an artist but as a person. Over time, I learned that confidence doesn’t mean never feeling doubt; it means showing up anyway.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m a professional oil painter whose work centers around emotion, storytelling, and human connection. My art often explores themes of innocence, resilience, and the light that exists even in dark places. I believe painting has the power to make people feel — to pause, reflect, and see the world a little differently.

Recently, I held a solo exhibition at The Proletariat Gallery and Public House titled “Protect Our Innocence.” The show aimed to raise awareness about child trafficking and the importance of keeping our children safe. Each piece depicted children in moments of freedom and joy — a reminder of what we are fighting to protect. That project was deeply personal and one of the most meaningful experiences of my artistic journey.

What excites me most about being an artist is how each painting takes on a life of its own — it begins as an idea, but it evolves into something that speaks to people in ways I never could have predicted. I pour my heart into every brushstroke, hoping the emotion I feel when creating it comes through to whoever stands in front of it.

Looking ahead, I’m expanding my work into commissioned portraiture and launching a collection that continues to explore the human spirit — our vulnerability, our strength, and our stories. My goal is to keep creating art that not only decorates a wall but touches a soul.

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?

Looking back, I’d say the three most impactful qualities in my journey have been perseverance, emotional awareness, and curiosity.

Perseverance has been everything. Art is a process that demands patience — there are times when a painting doesn’t turn out how you envisioned, or when self-doubt creeps in. I learned that showing up anyway, even on the hard days, is what separates a dream from a reality. Every brushstroke — even the ones I painted over — taught me something valuable.

Emotional awareness has shaped the heart of my art. The ability to connect with emotion — both my own and others’ — allows me to create pieces that feel honest and human. My advice to emerging artists is to embrace your feelings instead of hiding them; they’re your most powerful tool as a creator.

And finally, curiosity. I’ve always believed in staying a student of life and art. I’m constantly experimenting with new techniques, studying light, and observing the world around me. Curiosity keeps the creative fire alive. Never stop exploring — your best work often comes from asking “what if?”

To anyone just starting out: trust the process, give yourself grace, and keep painting from the soul. Growth doesn’t happen overnight, but with heart and persistence, it always comes.

Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?

When I start to feel overwhelmed, I turn to two things that always help me recenter — painting and nature. Creating art allows me to release whatever I’m feeling without needing to find the right words. There’s something calming about watching colors blend on a canvas — it reminds me that even chaos can become something beautiful.

Sometimes, though, I just need to step away from the studio. I’ll go outside, take a walk, or spend time with my family. Being surrounded by the people I love and taking in simple moments — like fresh air or laughter — helps me gain perspective and remember what truly matters.

My advice to anyone feeling overwhelmed is to slow down and breathe. Find something that grounds you — whether it’s painting, journaling, praying, or sitting quietly. Don’t push yourself to create or perform when your mind needs rest. Balance is essential to creativity, and it’s okay to pause and refill your cup before pouring back into your work.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.JErinArtwork.com
• Instagram: j.erin.artwork
• Facebook: Jo Erin
• Linkedin: J. Erin
• Other: TikTok: @j.erin.artwork

Image Credits

J. Erin Artwork