We were lucky to catch up with Jennifer Elaine recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Jennifer, 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 by building positive relationships and by recognizing what I exceeded at in life. To be honest, I’ve always found validation in others’ opinions of me, and people rarely say anything negative about me to my face. My self-esteem was developed even more by speaking positive affirmations to myself daily.
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 create phenomenal paintings that display Black women in a positive light, embracing their natural kinks and curls graced with melanin-rich skin. My art is internally driven, like a gateway to the soul. illustrating the beauty, power, dopeness, and resilience of Black women. I love big, natural Afrocentric hair and bright engaging colors, so most of my artwork displays Black women with kinky curly hair accompanied by a vibrant, colorful background.
In November 2019, I also opened the first Black woman-owned art gallery in Cordova, a suburb in Memphis, TN. I curate and sell the artwork of 11 Black artists at my gallery. I also host paint parties, summer youth art camps, private art lessons, art exhibitions, and more!
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?
Three most impactful qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge in no specific order:
Self-discipline is essential to be a successful entrepreneur. I do not act on impulse as much and stay focused on tasks. I make sure I meet all important deadlines by staying disciplined. You have to stay focused and avoid distractions.
Confidence has helped me to be able to market effectively because I know that my artwork is beautifully DOPE! A lot of artists are introverts, but I’m the complete opposite…I’m an EXTRA extrovert. I love people and I love being the center of attention. I’m very confident in my work, so I love to show my paintings to the world.
Consistency, consistency, CONSISTENCY! If you aren’t consistent, you will not be successful in your journey. My consistency has grown my Instagram following to 20K+, Facebook following to 10K+, and TikTok to 9K+. I have art collectors in 44 different states and 3 different countries. Consistency ties in with being self-disciplined and focused.
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?
I inherited my Dad’s sales and marketing ethics, along with his extroverted personality. He always told me that “If they’re buying, you’re selling!” and “You can sell water to a well”. He passed away suddenly in March 2022, and I miss him dearly. The grieving process has been rough, but I’ve been pressing forward to make him proud like I know he would want.
My Mama is my best friend, and she keeps me grounded when I get anxious or frazzled. She has a very calming and comforting vibe. Her encouraging words and being my confidant is very impactful to my mental health on my journey.
Both my parents suggested that I open my art gallery in 2019, and they helped me find the perfect location!
Contact Info:
- Website: orijennalart.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/orijennal_art
- Facebook: facebook.com/orijennalart
