Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nia Simone. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Nia , 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.
Imposter syndrome has been a lifelong companion for me, just as I’m sure it has for many. As an artist, the struggle intensifies when trying to attach a price tag to a piece of yourself. The real kicker is how others perceive and value that piece of you – it can mess with your self-perception, big time. I’m still knee-deep in the battle against it, but what keeps me going is recognizing that everyone brings value in their own unique way.
Creating art is like turning pieces of myself into a physical product. It’s a vulnerable act. Yet, when people put a value on it, it feels like they’re putting a value on me. It’s a real struggle that feeds into imposter syndrome. But here’s the thing: everyone’s got their own way of creating value and purpose.
If you feel a calling to do something, that’s your cue to dive in. It’s not a mistake; it’s a sign that you belong and deserve to thrive in that field. The journey to overcome imposter syndrome is far from perfect, but it’s a necessary and liberating one. Embrace the imperfections, acknowledge your unique contribution, and revel in the freedom that comes with overcoming those nagging doubts.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am a creator at the root of everything, driven by a passion for evoking emotional responses through art. My focus primarily revolves around surrealism, the kind of art that prompts you to question your reality. Specifically, I dedicate myself to crafting surreal portraits, with a special emphasis on POC women, predominantly black women. These portraits aim to showcase the multifaceted beauty, depth, joy, power, and melodic essence within them. That’s the essence of my artistry.
In addition to my surrealist portraits, I also channel my creativity into producing coloring books designed to induce a meditative state and alleviate anxiety. These coloring books, too, feature POC women, offering a diverse and inclusive meditative experience.
Beyond visual art, I extend my creative reach into the realm of experiences. Recently, I hosted my inaugural surrealist gallery, exclusively featuring people of color. This immersive event was curated to engage the senses, incorporating spoken word, interpretive dance, and art in various mediums. The result was an environment that fostered engaging conversations and left a lasting impact. Looking ahead, I am excited about the prospect of creating more immersive experiences that resonate with diverse audiences.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, adaptability, continuous learning, and embracing what makes me different have been crucial in my journey as a young Black female artist. My advice for those starting out:
Embrace Adaptability:
Be open to change and view it as a chance to grow. Flexibility in navigating different scenarios will set you apart.
Commit to Learning:
Stay curious and actively seek opportunities to learn and expand your artistic skills. Lifelong learning is a powerful tool for personal and professional growth.
Celebrate Your Uniqueness:
Identify what makes you different and use it. Society may encourage conformity, but embracing your uniqueness is a superpower that sets you apart in your artistic journey.
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?
One of the most impactful things my parents did for me was to show, by example, that everything doesn’t have to be perfect to take the next step. You don’t always need a safety net or to have all your ducks in a row. Just take that step. Moving forward imperfectly was always way more important than standing still in perfection.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.niasimone.work
- Instagram: @Atypicalcreationsart
