We are all different and there is no reason you can’t use obstacles as simply detour signs
I was always creative, impulsive and couldn’t follow rules or directions, later in life I would be diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia.
Coming from a working class family going to university wasn’t really shown as an option but I did go to a few classes, that’s where my ADHD and dyslexia would really hold me back from traditional learning styles.
Now the good part of a working class background is I knew I had to work but also felt inside I would fit best in the creative world so I got a job at a bead shop and started making jewellery. But after struggling with further health issues, now more in the areas of anxiety and depression, I knew I would need to figure out how to make money and work from home.
I was watching a TV show called Melrose Place (yes now you get an idea of my age I’m 50). The actresses didn’t have any jewellery on and I thought if they wore more jewellery then people would want to also wear it. I found out the production company info and cold called the shows costume designer Denise Wingate and she gave me my first shot. After that I went from working at a bead store to selling jewellery to TV and films as well as wholesaling to stores.
Things that are considered weakness can be your biggest strength. If I hadn’t had problems getting out of the house I wouldn’t have taken such a long shot. But nothing ventured nothing gained.
I worked in wardrobe on a film after interning for only a few weeks so I am a big believer in internships and finding mentors. As I try to write this I have a hard time focusing but somewhere in there I also ran a non-profit which came about after I was refused volunteer work abroad due to lack of college degree. I did end up teaching and securing fund’s for a well in Uganda…
My inability to focus and follow written directions I feel is part of my strength in my visual art as well. We are all different and there is no reason you can’t use obstacles as simply detour signs. When you see one just think outside the box and keep on your path to your goal but getting there will be your own unique journey.
Art should never be for the few. Art is in every part of life and everyone who wants to create should. Always think outside the box because your path may not look traditional but if I can get my work out there I know you can as well
