Meet Jen Kroeger

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jen Kroeger. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Jen, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.

I am an artist and I am comfortable with who I am. Although for me, like many artists, imposter syndrome rears its ugly head occasionally. To overcome this thought, I have simply come to terms with the fact that making art is something I have to do. Like living and breathing – no question. I am having fun doing what I want and being true to myself. I am following where this artistic journey takes me and it’s been a wild ride so far, but I would never give it up for self-doubt. 

If you are an artist (or a writer or other creative, aspiring or professional), you’ll undoubtedly get this nagging feeling from time to time that you’re not good enough. You’ll feel like no one sees or appreciates what you’re doing. You’re not getting chosen for exhibitions, not getting very many likes, not finding a gallery to represent you. You may not even feel confident sharing ANY of your work to friends, family or social media yet. Imposter syndrome can be a tough adversary. However, if you have the persistent feeling – even wayyyyyy deep down – that you need to be creative in some way, then you need to push through no matter what. You have to know and hold tight to the fact that you’re answering a calling, however you want to frame it: an obsession, meeting a need, messing around, “dabbling” or practicing your hobby. BTW, the latter three are just giving you an excuse – an out – to explain away the fact that you’re “less than,” even though you’re absolutely not. It’s all perception. The way others perceive you. The way you perceive yourself. OWN IT. Even if you don’t think you’re good enough yet – know that you really have to, and will, make a bunch of bad art before you get anywhere. It’s part of the process. It surprises me all the time when people say they love my work. I just keep showing up to create every day and celebrate even small victories – such as: that mark was perfect! I love that color combination! A stranger liked my post! I got to paint today! It’s the little things, a positive perspective and the love of what I do, that keep me going.

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?

I’m a visual artist. I paint colorful, bright abstract landscapes in Sarasota, Florida. I’m also the founder and studio director of SRQ East Art Studios, which is home to twelve diversely talented artists and designers.

As a painter, I use acrylics, soft pastels, charcoal, graphite, ink and various mediums on canvas. I explore color combinations and their emotional effects, creating idyllic, happy environments. I unapologetically explore escapism as a method of coping with the turbulence of modern society. In a world fraught with war, politics, misinformation, technology and environmental concerns, I am looking at a brighter perspective, experimenting with bold colors, gestural marks, shapes and hidden love notes from my younger self. These works celebrate time spent in nature, recall happy memories of growing up in the 80s and stand as a reminder to be present, to have fun, to play in the now.

SRQ East Art Studios celebrated its first anniversary on September 1st, 2024. I love that I can be an artist and also have a small part in nurturing the creativity of others. By establishing a dedicated space in our area of town and opening more studios in the city, it broadens the reach of artists in the area. We are open to the public for events, classes and Second Saturdays during area-wide Open Studios. We are fortunate to have a large space with classrooms and galleries at our disposal. Our own artists are able to host classes and outside artists can submit a class proposal form through our website. We just had our very first Call to Artists for our upcoming skateboard show and second major event of the year called “All Decked Out,” where artists can choose any theme or style as long as it’s painted on a blank skateboard deck that we supply to them. The “All Decked Out” opening reception takes place at SRQ East Art Studios on Saturday, November 2nd from 5-7pm. The address is 8326 Consumer Ct. Sarasota, FL 34240. The event catches a second wind and heads to Calusa Brewing 5377 McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233 for a closing reception Saturday November 16th 12-5pm.

Personally, I am very excited to announce that I will be represented by Define Gallery on Palm Avenue in Sarasota starting October 1st. I was also one of a handful of artists chosen for a solo show through the gallery. My solo exhibition, called Portals: Soul Portraits, will be featured in the Case Gallery of Define throughout the month of March, with the opening reception happening March 7th, 6-8pm. The address of Define Gallery is 68 S. Palm Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Confidence:
One of my instructors in college used to say, “fake it till you make it,” and I thought it was brilliant at the time. Now I realize that you don’t have to fake it if you OWN IT. When you take ownership of what you’re doing, you are making it happen – the good, the bad and the ugly – it’s all a part of what makes you who you are. Parade that s*** around!

Comparison:
Don’t get lost comparing yourself to others. They have their own journey. If everything seems perfect for someone else on social media, chances are they have their own hurdles. Focus on yourself and your own journey. Comparison will stunt your growth.

Gratitude:
Somehow over the years I developed this habit – when I’m really struggling with something (disappointment, frustration, etc), I breathe deep and think of 5-10 things I’m grateful for. It usually changes my mood pretty quickly.

What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?

When I first began exhibiting here in Florida, I really struggled with nerves and couldn’t imagine trying to explain or sell my work to people. I am an introvert. I never imagined myself to be a salesperson. The weird thing about art is that you make it, and you’re usually alone in the process, but you also have the business side – you have to sell yourself if you want to sell your work. I shared this insecurity with a lovely gallery owner a couple years ago and she mentioned that it’s like a muscle you can build up – being able to socialize, go to multiple events and talk to collectors. About a year after she mentioned this, I realized she was right. I still need my down time to recharge after socializing and events, but the more I put myself out there, the easier it becomes. I now make it to as many events as I can, especially to support my peers. When appropriate, I introduce myself, share stories, make new acquaintances and even new friends. I’m not and never will be a pushy salesperson, but I find that if you’re genuine, you will find people who are interested. Putting myself out there has definitely opened doors for me.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Jen at Art Ovation – Lynn Twohill

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