We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jaela Roe. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jaela below.
Jaela , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?
Absolutely, I had some thoughts before starting my professional career about what it would be like to have a regular job and how I could turn my artistry into a career. However, I prefer being an artist because it allows me to live my life with no regrets. Pursuing my artistic passions enables me to live out my dreams. I am grateful for the freedom that comes with pursuing my artistic passions, as it allows me to live a life without regrets. Through my art, I am able to explore new ideas, push boundaries, and challenge myself to grow as a creator. I also believe that there’s no point in wasting time on a job that doesn’t bring happiness. Why waste time when we have the present to live life? Being an artist is a truly fulfilling way to live, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Jaela , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My name is Jaela Roe, and I am a passionate dance artist, dance teacher, and business owner hailing from Dallas, Texas. Dancing has been a part of my life since I was just 3 years old, when I began dancing through the church. As I grew older, I attended local dance classes to refine my skills. When I was in high school, I had the privilege of training in dance under the tutelage of Hillary Rinella at W.T. White High School.
I was determined to pursue my passion for dance further, and so I majored in dance at Alabama State University. After graduation, I was fortunate enough to join The Joy of Music and Movement founded by Marshell Johnson, an arts integration company which provides dance and fine arts instruction services. Working for the company has been an incredibly fulfilling experience, as it has allowed me to impart my knowledge and passion for dance to aspiring young artists.
The Joy of Music and Movement also introduced me to Schooling Talent founded by Zebretta Johnson, a sister company that changed my life by providing entertainment training services. Through Schooling Talent, I was able to explore my artistic identity and develop my skills in dance and acting training . The training I received has been valuable, allowing me to perform all around the world with various companies, including Schooling Talent, and major recording artists such as Fred Hammond and Dawn Richard. I feel truly blessed to be able to do what I love every day, and I look forward to continuing to inspire and educate others through my art.
Lastly, In July 2020 during the season of “quarantine” I founded Creations By A’Ji is a company that specializes in custom-made apparel that was birthed and founded. One day in quarantine I took some special time of self-reflection and asked God “What else could you use me creatively in”? At the time I was already a professional dancer and dance instructor, so my creative vibes were always flowing. It was divinely given to me to create things that people would enjoy, which is seeing themselves express life through art on materials they could treasure for years to come!
Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?
As an artist, you are often required to dedicate long hours, both in rehearsals and in perfecting your craft. It can be a challenging and sometimes exhausting journey, but it is always worth it in the end. Even though you may not see immediate results, the rewards of your hard work will inevitably come to fruition. This process is a constant one, and just like any journey, it requires patience and perseverance. With time, you will witness the fruits of your labor and feel a sense of accomplishment for all that you have achieved.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
In my opinion, society can support artists and creatives by recognizing and giving credit for their creative contributions. It is only fair that artists are paid what they are worth for their work. Unfortunately, there have been too many instances where artists have contributed significantly, yet have not been adequately compensated. Along with fair compensation, representation also matters. It is crucial that artists receive the recognition and respect they deserve for their contributions to society
Contact Info:
- Website: www.creationsbyaji.com
- Instagram: jaelaroe_
Image Credits
Jade Rouille Nystasha Kelly