We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kiki Serna. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kiki below.
Hi Kiki, so excited to have you with us today, particularly to get your insight on a topic that comes up constantly in the community – overcoming creativity blocks. Any thoughts you can share with us?
Historically I’ve been able to overcome and get past Creative/Artist blocks by starting out slow, being gentle with myself, and beginning by doing something easy but enjoyable. When I’m going through a creative slump I look towards other creative outlets that inspire me. I reach towards a familiar but fave book, journal, or zine ( familiar, or something I’ve read before, so that when it sparks creativity I can walk away from it), watch a movie by a director that inspires me, have a studio visit, or visit a museum or gallery. I’ve learned the easiest way to get over blocks is by finding that enjoyment and inspiration that can help me pivot my perspective in a more organic manner. Before I realize it, I’m already having fun and feeling better emotionally, and ready to get back into my own creative practice.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m a local Mexican, American artist working on installation, collage, and video based work. I received my BFA from The Kansas City Art Institute and have been a practicing artist since graduating. I work with themes of the immigrant experience, absence, memory, and bi-cultural visual narratives. My work usually begins from a very personal space and thought the act of analyzing family photos, letters, and home videos I’m able to expand these stories. My most rewarding days are those that I spend inside my studio working on multiple pieces while listening to podcasts, or audiobooks.
Right now I’m feeling extra excited for upcoming opportunities to exhibit, to connect with other artists, and to continue to engage in local and national art communities.
If you want to check out some on my current pieces, stop by The Kansas City Museum, where I have a very special piece permanently on view on the second floor.
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?
1. Networking – network, network, network! Socialize and build your community.. Networking has helped me make moves, find good friends, and learn new perspectives.
2. Broaden your perspective – We’re so used to comfortability and our own space. Going out to new places, meeting new people, and going out of my norm has helped me view the world from different angles and brought to me countless opportunities.
3. Spend time alone – If you’re doing the two things above ^ you’re going to need some quiet time. Having peace and quiet is part of growth and can help with clarity and self care. This can be the time when you treat yourself to a good book, cooking a new dish, going on a walk, and practicing some writing.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
For me there has been so many key people in my community who have helped me overcome challenges and building and developing skills. My art and cultural community is so important to me because I’ve been able to find so many resources in it that have constantly inspired me to continue my art practice. If you find your community you soon realize the organic symbiosis that happens between each other.
For me, I’ve been able to look at my mentors, past teachers, friends, and fellow creatives as that support system. As individual people we all have different skills that are unique to who we are and so being able to connect with people through these strengths has helped me with challenges and growth.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kikiserna.com
- Instagram: k.sernaa
Image Credits
Diana Guadalupe Gonzalez, LoopsVisuals
