We were lucky to catch up with Jackie Donovan recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Jackie, appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?
This is the easiest answer— my dad. My father was raised in Somerville, MA by Irish immigrant parents. His life hasn’t always been easy. He is, by far, the hardest worker and most resilient person I know. I consider everything he has ever given me or done for me as the greatest gift.
I am a first generation college graduate and I didn’t fully realize until recently how proud of myself I should be for accomplishing that. I didn’t have a parent who graduated from college coaching me during the application process or knowing what to do at every step of my college career, but what I did have was my dad spending hours helping me to figure it all out. My “head down focus” is all from my dad even though a lot of times it felt like I was sprinting to catch up when most people could just walk.
I think I face hardships the same way he always has — a storm within and a desire to prove people wrong. It also helps to know that someone always has your back even if you fail. It makes it easier to take giant leaps of faith, like quitting your full time job to be an artist!
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?
At Creations by Jack, I turn blank canvases into wedding magic with hand-painted decor and bespoke art that adds a splash of personality to every celebration. No cookie-cutter designs here! Whether it’s a sign that tells a story or a painting that sparks joy, I love transforming ideas into something tangible and unforgettable. I’m also completely stencil free, so every piece has a special hand painted quality to it.
I recently had a good friend share that after her wedding, she put the drink sign I painted on her bar cart at home, and nothing could make me happier than to hear that!
In year two of my business my greatest goal is to become more involved in my community. I’m also really being called to teach… paint night, anyone?!
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?
1. Artistic Ability & Innovation: I definitely have a strong foundation in my craft. Since I was a child I have wanted to learn anything I possibly can about art— especially painting. While I didn’t earn a degree in fine arts, I did take advantage of skills courses throughout my college career. Most of what I know about technique is from my public school art teachers. And, a good amount of my talent is natural (I feel like I can’t take credit for that!) But just as important is the ability to innovate and evolve my style, keeping my work fresh and appealing to potential clients.
2. Networking & Relationship Building: Building a strong network of fellow artists, potential clients, and collaborators has been crucial. Whether it’s attending art events, leaning on community, or connecting on social media, having a solid network can open doors to opportunities and has helped my career thrive.
3.Self-Discipline & Resilience: There’s that resilience again! Being my own boss when it comes to my art means I have to stay motivated and organized. It’s easy to get distracted when there’s no set schedule, and rejection or slow months can be tough. Staying resilient and consistent with both my creative output and business efforts is key to my long-term success.
Advice I would give others starting out: the long hours and tight budget are worth the struggle. There is another side of it— push through!
Alright, so before we go we want to ask you to take a moment to reflect and share what you think you would do if you somehow knew you only had a decade of life left?
I love this question! If I had a decade left, I’d make it count by having a blast while doing some good. First thing on my list: I would start a farm, to spread joy and teach people how to live sustainably, but also because I love cows. I’d advocate for bold changes that protect our planet and lift up the voices of those who are often left out of the conversation. My art? I’d use it to spark excitement, get people thinking, and motivate the next generation to be kind, curious and intentional. And I would definitely drink plenty of red wine and write lots of poetry in my two favorite vacation spots: Provincetown, MA and Key West, FL.
Contact Info:
Image Credits
Gabby Riggieri
Alex Gordias Photography
Carney Abbott Photo
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
