We were lucky to catch up with Jade John recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jade, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I attribute my creative foundation to a formal education in visual arts during my early years in Louisiana, guidance from high school art teachers, and a significant portion of my skills are self-taught. My grandpa stuck a camera in my hand at a young age, and I’ve never seen the world through the same lens since. In retrospect, I would adopt a more proactive approach to learning by embracing the mantra ‘just do the thing.’ Overcoming my procrastination and having greater confidence in my execution of my creative visions would have proved beneficial to me.
As a creative, mastering technical skills in art forms, cultivating a strong work ethic, and developing resilience to navigate challenges were crucial. On a personal level, effective communication, adaptability, and a continuous willingness to learn have proven to be essential skills for overall growth and success. I would have to say that the two obstacles that stood in my way of learning more would be time, money, and resources.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I got into my craft at a young age when I became interested in drawing. My mom took me to an art school to be formally tested into a local public art school that was two whole towns w away from where we were living at the time – this magnet academy was something special and not really anything that we had seen before.

I remember a whole summer driving to the school districts campus to take multiple tests: a still life of fruit, or basic shading skills & wondering if I would pass and be accepted. I remember finding out that I did in fact get accepted, and there my art education began.

I enjoy photographing all things under the sun. My focus has been nature lately, but I love taking photos of people in there essence/element – It’s a favorite of mine!

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I feel like the mission planted into heart was of one that expresses the seasons of human condition through different expressions – writing, visual art, music, dancing, talking to another, etc. I feel that I am here to help facilitate & rebuild the connection of self & connection of community between humans. I have always had a special knack to be able talk to anyone, and now I see how beautiful it is to be able to hold that space. It comes from a place that we are all human, and so there must be something we can find in common for connection, right? The universe has a funny way of bringing us people we need, or vice versa. I hope that I can continue to use my heart as a vessel for change, and can reach those that need it.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is that there is a continual death and rebirth of self – a constant challenge, victory, loss, or lesson. I can reinvent myself over and over again. I appreciate the way that I get to see life through my lens, and the ability to share it.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.boulderhaircollective.com
• Instagram: Lady_of_the_jade_crown

Image Credits
Image Credits are for myself. I am the original photographer of these images. Jade E John