Meet Chris Arnold (A*)

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Chris Arnold (A*). We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Chris , first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Imposter syndrome is a constant companion in my life, especially as an artist. It’s a recurring struggle that visits me at least once a month, as I find myself lying in bed in the quiet hours, questioning my worth as a “good artist.” The emotional rollercoaster of self-doubt is a unique journey that perhaps only fellow creatives can fully grasp. In those moments, I grapple with the idea that I should have pursued a different path in life. However, the truth is, it’s merely a deceptive narrative. Despite these nagging doubts, I remind myself that I am a “good artist,” driven by an intrinsic passion for creation. Even if I never show or sell another piece, my love for art fuels an unwavering commitment to my craft. This realization serves as a grounding force, helping me navigate the realities of imposter syndrome and reaffirming my identity as an artist.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Following the completion of my MFA from SCAD, my focus has spanned a diverse array of Illustration and Design projects. However, the onset of the pandemic prompted a transformative shift in my artistic exploration. I began diving deeper into nature, emotion, and color, channeling these elements into my work. Currently, my artistic endeavors are centered around the creation of captivating paintings featuring landscapes and botanical subjects.

What excites me most about this shift is the profound connection I’ve established with the natural world, allowing me to infuse my artwork with a heightened sense of emotion and vibrancy. The featured body of work in this interview serves as a testament to this evolution.

Looking ahead, I’m passionate about making even more art with even greater conservational impacts. This year, I am committed to pushing boundaries and exploring innovative ways to contribute meaningfully to conservation efforts through my paintings and drawings. Follow my social media accounts listed for updates on upcoming events, exhibitions, and collaborations as I continue to combine a narrative of art and conservation.

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?
ONE: Attitude is everything. This is quite possibly the most important quality in my opinion. Simply put, it shapes how individuals approach life’s challenges and opportunities. A positive attitude not only fosters resilience in the face of adversity but also enhances problem-solving skills and creativity, leading to a more constructive and fulfilling life. Furthermore, a positive attitude is contagious, influencing the people around us and fostering a more optimistic and collaborative environment.

TWO: Be curious. Being curious is essential as it drives a continuous thirst for knowledge and understanding, fueling personal and professional growth. Curiosity encourages individuals to explore new ideas, perspectives, and experiences while fostering adaptability in an ever-changing world. This quality not only stimulates creativity and innovation but also promotes a lifelong learning mindset, enabling individuals to stay intellectually engaged and open-minded throughout their lives.

THREE: Generosity. Being generous cultivates a positive and compassionate community by fostering a sense of interconnectedness and empathy. Generosity not only benefits the recipients but also brings immense satisfaction and fulfillment to the giver. This quality enhances social bonds, builds trust, and contributes to a more harmonious and supportive environment, ultimately enriching the overall quality of life for both individuals and communities.

Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
As a creative professional and an educator, there is no single book that has played an important, it is many. My advice is read anything and everything. I have found inspiration from biographies to art books, comics to cookbooks. It doesn’t matter the content, it matters you keep picking books and reading them.

Here are five titles I have recently added to my library: 1.) The Secret Lives of Color by Kassia St. Clair. 2.) Taste by Stanley Tucci. 3.) The Botany of Desire by Michael Pollan. 4.) How to Be an Artist by Jerry Saltz. 5.) Originals by Adam Grant.

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