Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sasha Jimenez French. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Sasha thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
Navigating the Unknown: Embracing Risks in Relocation
My life has always been a delicate dance between embracing my home and stepping into the unknown. Born to immigrant parents, the rhythm of my upbringing was infused with a blend of cultures, forming the foundation for my boundless artistic spirit. But it was my heart’s daring leap that truly set me on a journey of risk.
As the partner of a dedicated military personnel, I’ve become accustomed to uprooting my existence every few years, exchanging familiar surroundings for uncharted territories. The exhilarating yet daunting prospect of relocation has woven itself into the fabric of my life. With each move, I find myself at the crossroads of anticipation and trepidation. The thrill of embracing a new city is accompanied by the weight of saying goodbye to the comforts I’ve grown accustomed to. The faces, the streets, the routines that once molded my life become fragments of memory, as I step into the unexplored landscape of my next chapter.
With every move, I face the daunting task of carving out a space for my art. The decision to rent a public studio is a leap of faith, a plunge into a world of vulnerability. The walls of my studio not only house my paintings but also bear witness to my creative struggles and triumphs. Every brushstroke is a proclamation of my willingness to take risks, to lay bare my soul through my art.
The fear of the unknown never truly vanishes. Each new city holds its own set of challenges, and I feel the weight of starting over. Yet, in that vulnerability, I find strength. The risk of forging connections in unfamiliar territory, the risk of unveiling my art to a new audience –continually worth it. Each city I embrace, each studio I inhabit, becomes a chapter in my artistic journey.
Embracing the unknown is not without its moments of doubt. The thought of continually uprooting my life is a shadow that never quite disappears, a reminder that permanence is a luxury. Yet, with each risk, with each relocation, I’ve grown stronger, more adaptable, and infinitely more resilient. The rewards have been as profound as the challenges have been daunting – the people I’ve met, the stories I’ve gathered, the multifaceted layers of experience that have enriched my journey.
While the road ahead remains uncertain, the willingness to take risks and the courage to start anew continue to be my guiding stars. Each city I’ve called home, each studio I’ve transformed, has been a testament to the power of embracing change, of facing the unknown head-on. In the dance between risk and reward, I’ve found not only artistic fulfillment but also the exquisite beauty of life’s unpredictability.
Sasha , 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?
Buenas, I’m Sasha Jimenez French – a multidisciplinary artist who expresses myself through a symphony of colors, movement, and unwavering passion. Being Cuban American, the vibrant rhythm of my island home has left a permanent mark on my soul, showing up in my work as a burst of intense hues and scorching heat. My journey as an artist spans across canvases, dance floors, and communities, intertwining creativity with activism. Beyond my studio practice, I am a dedicated advocate for accessible art. You’ll often find me wearing my educator and art activist hats, working to transform art into an inclusive experience for everyone. My studio, right in the heart of downtown Kingston, is a hub where artists from different backgrounds come together to collaborate and create. My artistic journey is further enriched by my work with Movement Market Collective, Kingston’s only professional dance company. The company collaborates with like-minded artists, pushing the boundaries of innovation and collectively shaping the cultural narrative of our city. I believe art is a universal birthright, and I’m dedicated to making it accessible to all.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
As an artist parent, the rewards of nurturing creativity in my children are truly priceless. Those afternoons lost in creation together, where paint and laughter fill the air, have become cherished memories that bind us. It’s a joy beyond words to witness their growth from curious young children to blossoming individuals with their own unique artistic perspectives. They inspire me as much as I inspire them, infusing my work with fresh enthusiasm and untamed imagination. Being an artist parent is a mutual journey of discovery, a dance of inspiration that shapes both our creative souls and deepens the bonds that tie us together.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My unwavering goal is to forge accessible art spaces for creativity to thrive. I firmly believe that art is a birthright, something that should be within everyone’s reach, regardless of whether it’s a career path or a personal passion. Collaborating with artists from diverse disciplines, my aim is to cultivate environments where individuals can nurture their creative aspirations freely. These spaces are not just about creating art; they’re about fostering a sense of empowerment and community, encouraging others to embark on their unique creative journeys with the same enthusiasm that fuels mine.
Contact Info:
- Website: Birdgirlarts.com
- Instagram: @birdgirlarts
Image Credits
Liz Cooper, Ashely Schomburg