We were lucky to catch up with Cordellus Smith recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Cordellus , thanks for joining us today. So, let’s start with a hypothetical – what would you change about the educational system?

If I were able to change the education system to prepare students for a more fulfilling life and career, I’d make all levels of education free…..tuition free. No one should be unable to get the best education due to financial limitations. For example due to high cost of going to an art school here, I’ve felt challenged in continuing my education. I have travelled and seen how other countries encourage students advancement via free education and programs designed to support equal access.

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’m a self taught artist. I’ve been an artist since very young. Most of what I know I learned via trial and error. I have taken probably two to three art classes through my entire life. I worked as an artist teaching art to elementary students for 17 years until the pandemic. When I begin teaching I was offered a job and knew nothing about teaching. I educated myself via the internet and took the attitude of sink or swim. Because I’m passionate about art and the creative process I learned to swim. Fortunately I worked with an after school program called Star which was very open and conducive in giving me the space to develop my art teaching vision and program. While teaching paid the bills I dedicated myself to my own artistic expression. My discipline is to create daily. I explore many creative disciplines but my favorites are acrylic paint and clay. It’s been a difficult journey but I never give up. I’ve shown my art in galleries, major museums and art festivals. I’m active online via Instagram and Facebook. I use social media to promote, sell my work, I love what I do and I’ve developed my own personal style. As challenging as being artist is at times I love what I do.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Life can give one many challenges and one of my recent challenges was letting go of my housing security just as the pandemic was starting in order to be able to save money to travel. It took tremendous faith to step out not knowing where I’d be sleeping..but I did it. It’s still a challenge but it’s given me the opportunity to travel and explore other cultures and use this in my art. Had I held on to what I believe to be safe, I’d still be stuck working to make ends meet. It’s not an easy path but the joy I feel when discovering a new country is so worthwhile. Sometimes one has to step out knowing the net will be there. May sound crazy and it’s scary but hey I’m discovering how resilient I am.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One lesson I’ve had to learn is you have to be dedicated to yourself and your vision. Family and friends can offer only so much support or assistance and at times none. Despite you must continue to wrestle with your inner insecurities and believe in yourself. You’ve got to put the work in. Be open to new ideas; embrace change; find mentors; and set goals even if you break them, it’s okay. Life is constantly changing and evolving. Don’t beat yourself up if you have to pivot or don’t make a goal. Just keep going.

Contact Info:

• Website: Colasmith.com
• Instagram: Thatcolagirl
• Facebook: Colacolasmith

Image Credits
Cola Smith Salwa Adabchi