Meet Rochelle Irons

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Rochelle Irons a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Rochelle, 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?

My brother once told me, “The less afraid you are to look like a fool, the more fun you will have in life”. And I suppose what he meant by that, was that our experiences in life are so much more enjoyable when we shift our focus to enjoying the moment instead of worrying about what we look like while doing that.
We all have to start somewhere when we are learning something new. As an Artist, you are always learning something new. If you aren’t, then you’re really just a crafter, not an artist. Artists push boundaries, try new things, and experiment with new processes and techniques.
Some of my favorite work has come from embracing this mindset and just allowing the process to be that. Not expecting myself to be great at something when I’m just experimenting.
The more I got positive responses from sharing not just my finished work, but the sometimes messy, disastrous process the more I began to feel comfortable allowing others to see my imperfections.

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?

My brand, Green Papaya Palace Inc spans the country from the East Coast to the West Coast. While in Florida I live in Jupiter near Juno Beach, painting surfboards, canvases, and murals inspired by the turquoise waters and sea creatures of the Florida Coast.
On the West Coast, I have this tiny little cabin on the side of a mountain where I can watch the deep blue, cold waters of the Pacific Northwest, this is where I create things inspired by the deeper, darker blues and greens of the ocean and forest. Focusing on oysters, mushrooms, and that slightly mysterious quality of the wildlife the West Coast is known for.
Both coasts always draw me to the shoreline, where nature feels the strongest. It’s like the ocean is always calling me home. I was raised on the water, living on a boat as a child until the age of 17, so no matter where I am it’s always the ocean, that most feels like home. I kind of revel in the contrasts and similarities of the ocean in different areas.
I create original artwork, clothing, and prints, and I love collaborating with stores and brands to bring unique items focusing on the beauty of the locations that make them special. My work is always inspired by nature and so I love seeing what each location seems to pull from my heart. I like to think that I absorb the energy and light of all I see and then that’s what makes its way onto my canvas.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Curiosity will show you the world. Don’t settle for what you already know or have seen. Always learn and seek out what is new.

Humility, there is always someone who knows more and has seen more than you. Find them, and soak in what they are willing to share with you.

Passion, don’t accept mediocrity. The things we pursue should light a fire in our hearts. These are the things that make us feel alive.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

My big goal for this year is to create a label. It’s one of my bucket list items (do we still say that? So if a wine company or liquor company is looking for original artwork for a label, I’m your girl!

I’m also focusing on finding more stores to carry my yoga and swimwear lines. so if you have a store that fits that vibe I would love to discuss making that happen. I’m looking for restaurants, hotels and, unique locations to display my artwork.

Also on my list is art curating. I’ve been dabbling in that and looking for the right fit where I can have a stronger influence in sharing not only my art but also that of others.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

please credit all images to Jillian Nicholson Brooks

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