We recently connected with Raine Alexandra and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Raine, 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.
Overcoming imposter syndrome is not an easy journey, and it is still something that I am working on to this day. I’ve learned to better recognize when I am having those feelings, and to know that my unique voice is just as important as every other artists. All of our art matter, in each and every form, and the world deserves to see and value it.
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?
What I love to focus on with my artwork is telling stories. My favorite stories are those told by the Earth. These are stories of growth, perseverance, and decay. Living in the woodlands of Michigan has deepened my connection with all that grows here, down to the small lichens that live among our trees. Destruction, death, and decay – yet life goes on and is reborn again. The in-between states and the connections that form are where I like to venture, while blurring the boundary between the real and the imagined. I convey these stories through wood, paint and fire. I’ve recently greatly enjoyed giving new life to reclaimed wood and reclaimed items such as handmade shelves and mirrors. There is something so rewarding about bringing life back to a piece that was once loved but became lost.
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?
One of the qualities that have pushed me forward during this artistic journey was the courage to step out of the norm to pursue a dream. I am from a family of artists, most who did not strive to pursue art as a career, but with art always being my calling since I was a child I knew I would want to take the leap to give it a try. I am mainly self taught, but allowing myself to ask questions and learn from fellow artists has been extremely impactful. We can bounce ideas and skills off of each other, therefore growing as not just artists but as friends as well. Don’t be afraid to be open to help, or open to learning new skills from artists or other avenues such as classes. We are lifelong learners as artists, and there is always room to grow. Allow yourself time for play, and time for creating without an outcome in mind. You may be surprised at what you discover.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
Making connections as an artist is very important to me, and I am always looking to collaborate with fellow artists or brands. Being able to collaborate with fellow artists have always been the most rewarding projects to work on. Having two creative visions collide can result in work that is more incredible than either artist had expected. Every artist has their own unique voice and style, and can dynamically change the outcome of a piece when combined with another unique perspective. If there is any interest with collaborating with me, you can reach out to me via hello@rainealexandraart.com
Contact Info:
- Website: rainealexandraart.com
- Instagram: r.aine
