We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Melissa Showers. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Melissa below.
Melissa, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.
My learning journey has been an exciting and rewarding one, but definitely not easy! From the the age of 3 years old, I had a passion for drawing, which fueled my determination to hone my skills on how to make a career as a creative. I started by enrolling in art courses and workshops over the years, as well as going to the Art Institute of Houston, which provided me with a solid foundation in the field. Additionally, I actively sought out mentors who generously shared their wisdom and guided me throughout my journey. Hands-on experience, experimentation and constant practice have also played a pivotal role in my learning process.
Looking back, there are several strategies that I could have employed to expedite my learning process. Firstly, I would have focused on setting clear and achievable goals, breaking down complex concepts into smaller, manageable tasks. This would have allowed me to track my progress more effectively. Secondly, leveraging online learning platforms and resources would have enabled me to access a vast array of educational content and accelerate my learning. Lastly, seeking out networking opportunities early on would have connected me with like-minded individuals, opening doors to new perspectives and insights.
Throughout my learning journey, I found several key skills to be indispensable in excelling in my field. Firstly, adaptability and a growth mindset were crucial in staying open to new ideas and embracing change. As the industry evolves, being adaptable helped me stay ahead of the curve. Secondly, effective communication skills were vital in conveying my ideas and collaborating with others. Not only did this facilitate learning from others, but it also enabled me to share my knowledge with the broader community. Lastly, problem-solving and critical thinking skills have been invaluable in tackling complex challenges and finding innovative solutions.
Just like any learning journey, I encountered a few obstacles along the way. One significant challenge was time management. Balancing work, personal life, and continuous learning required careful planning and prioritization. Moreover, there were times when self-doubt and imposter syndrome crept in, hindering my confidence in pursuing advanced concepts. However, I realized that seeking support from my mentors and peers helped me overcome these mental hurdles and that I wasn’t alone!
To all the aspiring creators out there, my advice is to embrace your passion and dive into continuous learning with an open heart. Don’t shy away from incorporating AI tools into your creative process. These tools are not here to replace our creativity but to augment and empower it in unimaginable ways. Set clear goals and celebrate each milestone, no matter how small. Remember, learning is a journey, and every step forward counts. Stay unique, its what makes you-you and sets you apart from the rest!
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
As a seasoned Interactive & Creative Director and multidisciplinary artist with over two decades of experience in Adobe Creative Suite, my creative journey has been nothing short of exhilarating. I pride myself on exploring the endless possibilities of interactive design, illustration and animation through my personal creative brand “And_Woman” and the non-profit community art show project “Weekend Pop-Up Gallery”.
You can catch me as a featured streamer on Adobe Live and Behance, where I passionately connect with the vibrant creative community. Almost every day, you’ll find me immersed in the world of drawing and animation, using Adobe Fresco to bring my visions to life.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with more than 200 esteemed clients as a Creative Director. From the initial spark of an idea to the flawless execution, I ensure seamless design engagements that leave a lasting impact. My dedication extends beyond my own work—I find immense joy in mentoring and managing a team of talented designers and UX experts, fostering their growth and development.
But it’s not just about the work; it’s about the lasting connections I’ve made with fellow creatives and designers throughout my journey. My passion lies in mentorship, and I cherish the ongoing relationships with those I’ve had the honor of working with and continue to collaborate with!
In this ever-changing world of creativity and technology, I find solace in embracing innovation while nurturing human connections. There is no earth without art!
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist and creative lies in the transformative power of collaboration, mentorship, and creating pathways of opportunities for fellow creatives. Through my non-profit organization and the Adobe Live/Behance platform, I have had the privilege of witnessing the magic that happens when artists come together, pooling their unique talents and perspectives to create something truly extraordinary.
Seeing the growth and success of those I mentor and support is incredibly fulfilling. I believe in the power of nurturing creativity and providing a platform for artists to shine, which has led to the discovery of incredible talents and the forging of lasting connections within the creative community.
Moreover, empowering artists with opportunities is like watching dreams unfold. Whether it’s providing a stage for their work to be showcased or introducing them to new tools and technologies, witnessing their confidence soar as they embrace these opportunities is an indescribable joy.
The bonds formed during creative collaborations are like no other. It’s a reminder that art is not a solitary endeavor, but a collective celebration of human expression. Through collaborative efforts, we push the boundaries of creativity and discover new realms of imagination.
In the end, the most rewarding part of being an artist and creative is the ability to be a catalyst for growth, inspiration, and innovation within the artistic community. Knowing that I have played a part in someone’s artistic journey and contributed to the flourishing of the creative spirit is what fuels my passion and keeps me endlessly motivated to create and uplift others!
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
My creative journey is driven by a clear and powerful mission. One of my primary goals is to continue empowering and nurturing fellow creatives by sharing the art of illustration and design. Through mentorship and collaborative learning experiences, I aim to inspire and guide aspiring artists, helping them unlock their true potential and unleash their creative brilliance.
Teaching has always been a passion of mine, and I firmly believe that knowledge becomes more valuable when shared. Witnessing the growth and transformation of others as they develop their artistic skills and find their own unique voice brings me immense joy and fulfillment.
In addition to my dedication to mentorship, I’m equally devoted to working with clients and brands who share a desire to craft a distinctive expression and vision. Each project is an opportunity to merge creativity and innovation, weaving a tapestry of ideas and designs that leave a lasting impact. Collaborating with clients to bring their visions to life is not just about delivering a product—it’s about creating an immersive experience that resonates with their audience.
As I continue on this creative journey, my mission remains steadfast—to inspire, educate, and collaborate, fostering a community where creativity knows no bounds. I firmly believe that through shared knowledge, passion, and vision, we can create a world where artistry thrives and unique expressions shine brightly. Whether it’s through teaching or client collaborations, I am committed to making a difference in the world of design and illustration, one creative endeavor at a time.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.behance.net/and_woman
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/and_woman/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-showers-5a044745/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@and_woman
- Other: https://view.ceros.com/internal-melissa-showers/melissa-showers-portfolio/p/1
Image Credits
Daniel Flores