We recently connected with Alysia Haight and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Alysia thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?
I’ve been an artist since I was able to pick up a pencil. My dad likes to remind me that creativity runs in my blood and I’d have to agree. I’ve been surrounded by creatives my entire life and art has consistently been apart of my upbringing. I’ve been heavily influenced by my grandmother and mother who both embody my definition of what it means to be an artist. Observing them in their craft allowed me to imagine my potential in the artistic world and gave me the courage to begin sharing my art with those around me. In 2018, I began debuting my art on social media, just as a hobby. I was proud of what I was able to create and I wanted people to see what I was capable of. After a few months of posting, I started receiving requests from friends and family, asking if I’d be willing to make something for them. At first I was apprehensive because it’s nerve-racking to make art for others being a perfectionist, but with the support of my family and friends, I took the leap and I’m so happy that I did.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
When I first started displaying my art, I really didn’t have the intention of monetizing it. Art has been one of my passions for years, so anyone that knows me, knows how much I love to create. From time to time, I would make art for friends and family as gifts. I love being able to gift something that is unique and one of a kind. As I continued to gift my art, people I knew started making requests and that’s really where it all began. Before I knew it, people were contacting me, asking if I could paint a mural, or do their chalkboard signs for their business. I started doing wedding signs and creating album covers. I started painting and then I purchased an iPad and began experimenting with digital art. I’ve never said no to an artistic opportunity and I believe that that kind of courage gives me an advantage. Although I’ve been challenged many times by the requests of my supporters, the confidence they’ve had in my artistic ability is a driving force behind my perseverance. I’m most proud of my ability to surprise myself repeatedly. Customers are always coming up with new project ideas that I never thought I’d be capable of making but in the end, I always figure it out. I’d love for everyone to know that I don’t scare easy.
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?
Two words: creative block. As much as I love being artistic, my desire to be a perfectionist can sometimes be debilitating. There have been times where I began a project and then five hours into it, I realize that I hate everything about it and freeze. On occasion, the block only lasts a few hours and then I’m able to redirect, but sometimes, the block last weeks or even months before I’m able to resume. It can be taxing to be creative. As an artist, I’m constantly drawing inspiration from my environment, experiences and pretty much all aspects of life. It takes time to compartmentalize all of your ideas into one clear vision.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
I had to learn that I can’t do everything for free or even at a discounted rate. I thoroughly enjoy sharing my expertise and experience but I also have to value the time and effort spent to get where I am. After some introspection, I came to the conclusion that I’m not creating art for everyone. There are times when my rates aren’t accessible for someone but I have to trust that the right person will value my time and effort just as much as I do.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: Citrus and Sage Artistry
Image Credits
Faith Ann Photography