We were lucky to catch up with James Hsieh recently and have shared our conversation below.
James, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?
My optimism comes from a combination of factors, rooted in my upbringing and family values. Growing up in a rural area surrounded by the beauty of nature played a significant role in shaping my outlook on life. Living amidst nature’s wonders, I developed a deep appreciation for the world around me, which instilled a sense of wonder and positivity.
Moreover, my family has always been a source of unwavering encouragement and support. They’ve consistently emphasized the importance of looking at the brighter side of things and maintaining a positive attitude, even in challenging times. Their belief in the power of optimism has been a guiding principle in my life.
In essence, my optimism is a reflection of both my rural upbringing, which connected me to the beauty and tranquility of nature, and the values instilled by my family, reminding me to always look up and focus on the positive aspects of life, rather than dwelling on the negatives. These influences have shaped my perspective and continue to fuel my optimism in the face of adversity.
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 James, a professional artist based in the vibrant city of New York. My career is a dynamic blend of full-time responsibilities as an interior designer and a dedicated pursuit of my passion as a part-time artist. Navigating the artistic landscape in the bustling metropolis of New York City has proven to be a challenging yet rewarding journey.
The majority of my days are consumed by my full-time role, where I collaborate with clients to craft unique interior designs for their residences and commercial spaces. This demanding profession demands a significant portion of my time and creative energy.
Nevertheless, my unwavering commitment to art remains undeterred. During my spare moments, I devote myself to the creation of artworks and the gradual realization of my ongoing art projects. These precious hours of artistic expression serve as a vital outlet for my creativity and a testament to my unwavering dedication to the craft.
Presently, I am delighted to announce the exhibition titled “Fabricated Nature: Odyssey of Wonder,” which is currently on display at 812 Lexington Avenue in the heart of New York City. This captivating exhibition space is generously sponsored by Apple Bank and masterfully organized by Art On The Ave NYC. It offers a dual purpose: not only does it serve as my creative sanctuary for crafting art, but it also functions as a gallery where I can showcase my works to art enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
The gallery is open for public viewing during specific hours, welcoming visitors on Thursdays and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For those seeking a private viewing experience on other days, appointments can be arranged by reaching out to us at info@artontheavenyc.com. I encourage you to seize this opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of art, as the exhibition will remain open until the culmination of 2023.
As the exhibition progresses, I am committed to the continuous creation of new artworks that will find their rightful place within this gallery space. During the designated gallery hours, I extend a warm invitation to join me in person, observe the evolution of my works in progress, and engage in insightful conversations about my art. It is an excellent opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of my artistic journey and connect with the artistic process firsthand.
In conclusion, I invite you to embark on a creative odyssey with me at “Fabricated Nature: Odyssey of Wonder.” Your visit during gallery hours not only allows you to appreciate my art but also provides a unique chance to witness the artistic process in action and get to know more about my artistic vision. I look forward to welcoming you to this immersive art experience and sharing my passion for creativity with you.
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?
Reflecting on my journey, I believe three key qualities have been profoundly impactful, and I’d like to offer advice on how individuals early in their journey can develop and improve these qualities:
1. Fearlessness and the Willingness to Make Mistakes:
– **Development:** Embrace the idea that making mistakes is an integral part of growth and learning. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone and take risks. Be open to trying new things, even if there’s a chance of failure. Practice self-compassion and learn from your mistakes.
– **Advice:** Understand that failure is not the end but a stepping stone to success. Don’t let the fear of making mistakes paralyze you. Instead, summon the courage to take action, always giving your best effort. Surround yourself with supportive mentors and peers who encourage experimentation and learning from failures.
2. Resilience and Perseverance:
– **Development:** Building resilience involves cultivating mental toughness and the ability to bounce back from setbacks. Develop a growth mindset by viewing challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. Practice self-care, stress management, and mindfulness techniques to maintain emotional strength.
– **Advice:** Understand that setbacks are a natural part of any journey. When you encounter obstacles, take a moment to assess the situation, learn from it, and then keep moving forward. Don’t let anything or anyone deter you from your goals. Seek inspiration from role models who have demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity.
3. Building Positive Relationships and Collaboration:
– **Development:** Develop strong interpersonal skills by actively listening, empathizing, and communicating effectively. Practice networking and relationship-building, both online and in-person. Be genuinely interested in others’ perspectives and experiences, and seek common ground.
– **Advice:** Recognize that success often involves collaboration and support from others. Instead of approaching every interaction as a competition, focus on making friends and allies. Building a network of friends, mentors, and collaborators can provide invaluable guidance and assistance on your journey. Offer your support and expertise to others in a spirit of reciprocity.
In the long and challenging journey of personal and professional growth, remember that seeking help from friends and allies can be a powerful asset. Cultivating these qualities—fearlessness, resilience, and positive relationships—will not only help you navigate your journey but also make it more fulfilling and enjoyable. Keep in mind that personal development is an ongoing process, and continuous effort will lead to improvement in these critical areas.
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When I find myself overwhelmed, I have developed a few strategies that help me regain my composure and balance. Firstly, I recognize the need to step back and take a break. I allow myself a moment to pause, take a deep breath, and distance myself from the source of stress. Often, this involves going outdoors, away from the immediate pressures, and giving myself the space to decompress.
One of my go-to activities during these moments is doing something out of the ordinary or unfamiliar. Engaging in a new experience or activity helps me redirect my focus and allows my mind to reset. For example, I might take a spontaneous day trip to the ocean, where the soothing sound of the waves and the vastness of the sea provide a sense of tranquility and perspective.
Another effective strategy for me is stargazing or simply lying down and looking up at the sky. This activity encourages mindfulness and contemplation, helping me find inner peace and clarity. Observing the vast expanse of the night sky reminds me of the bigger picture and puts my worries into perspective.
In summary, when overwhelmed, I prioritize taking a step back, seeking solace in nature, embracing new experiences, and finding moments of mindfulness. These strategies allow me to recharge both physically and mentally, enabling me to return to my responsibilities with a refreshed and focused mindset.
Contact Info:
- Website: jameshsieh.com
- Instagram: @jameshsieh1201
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jameshsiehartist/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-hsieh/
- Other: jameshsieh1201@jameshsieh.com
