We were lucky to catch up with Janessa Williams recently and have shared our conversation below.
Janessa, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
If I am being completely honest, I am still working on this one. I’m not sure if you can ever really overcome imposter syndrome as an artist. At least in my experience, it has always been a feeling that ebbs and flows throughout my existence. There are days when I don’t think I am worthy of the praise I may receive for my work, or that I’m event talented to begin with. Other days I’m as brave as ever, I create all the things, and share them proudly with others.
I have identified that in my own life that my imposter syndrome rises when I find myself being uncomfortable with being the first. The first in my family to choose a creative career path. The first to be an entrepenuer. And the first to quit their job and be a full time artist. Has becoming comfortable with being a trailblazer been easy? No, not at all but I understand more and more each day that I cannot hold myself back from my dreams out of fear of not being conventional. I don’t want to be conventional. Being creative and unique are my superpowers!
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a Freelance Creative Strategist and Artist. I specialize in Brand Marketing and Design as well as Painting and Digital Arts. I think the most exciting part of my work is taking visions and ideas and turning them into reality. My heart smiles the same when I successfully reach Marketing and Branding goals for clients, as it does when someone falls in love with my art for the first time. I love the feeling of being able to create whether it is for a company, a small business, an entrepreneur, a friend or family, or even just myself. My goal for my brand ColorTripz is to position myself as the “It Girl” of Marketing, Design, and Art. Fun, fly, and about her business.
Upcoming events that I am involved in are:
Dear Mama Art Show – will be highlighting Womxn’s body
July 27, 2024 | 6-10PM @ The Luminary, 2701 Cherokee St, St. Louis, MO 63118
The Erykah Badu Art Experience – A creative showcase of Singer/Songwriter Erykah Badu Musical Catalog curated by myself and a few friends.
August 10, 2024 | 5-9pm @ St. Louis ArtWorks 5959 Delmar Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63112
Frizz Fest – Midwest’s Largest Natural Beauty Festival
September 21, 2024 | Tower Grove Park, St. Louis, MO
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, I would say the three most impactful qualities or skills were:
Curiosity and Lifelong Learning: My insatiable curiosity drove me to explore different mediums, techniques, and cultural influences. This has kept my work fresh and innovative. For those early in their journey, I recommend always staying curious. Take courses, attend workshops, and read widely. Never stop learning. The more you know, the more you can incorporate diverse elements into your art.
Resilience and Adaptability: The creative path is often filled with setbacks and challenges. My ability to bounce back from failures and adapt to changing circumstances has been crucial. For budding artists, it’s essential to develop a thick skin and view setbacks as learning opportunities. Embrace change and be flexible in your approach. The art world is dynamic, and adaptability can be a significant asset.
Networking and Collaboration: Building a strong network of peers, mentors, and collaborators has played a vital role in my growth. It has opened doors to new opportunities, provided valuable feedback, and support. For those starting out, I suggest actively seeking out a community of like-minded individuals. Attend industry events, join artist collectives, and don’t be afraid to reach out to people you admire. Collaboration can lead to unexpected and enriching outcomes.
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me growing up was to encourage me to try anything I was interested in. My mom always said “If you start something, you don’t quit, you finish and see it through. If you didn’t like it you don’t have to do it again.” Needless to say I’ve been a dancer. a singer, a saxophonist, an actress, and orange belt in martial arts, a soccer player, track and field athlete, a swimmer, AND an artist.
Both of my parents pushed me to be educated, well-rounded, and creative. They always showed up and supported me. I believe that has helped me have the confidence to try new things, meet new people, and show up as my best self.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colortripzcreative/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/colortripz
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janessa-williams/
Image Credits
Photographer A-ron Johnson of Dopness Visuals
