We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jae Cee a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Jae, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

My most significant project is VALENAH, a symbol of hope and a bridge to both self-discovery and nature. It embodies the spirit of community and the power of creation through love. I conceived VALENAH as a heartfelt tribute to my grandmother and the generations before her, honoring their sacrifices and wisdom. This project serves as a profound expression of gratitude, reminding me that I stand on the foundation they built for me.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I started painting in 2020 as a way to express my emotions. Encouraged by my mentor and those who recognized my dedication, I began to push past my fears of being perceived and embraced the opportunity to share my work with the world. Over the past two years, I’ve participated in vendor events, live paintings, and hosted a variety of paint parties, including my own event called Trip N’ Paint.

One of my proudest accomplishments is having my piece “Nija” displayed in the Geodis Park Soundwaves Gallery. I also serve as a live painter for 92Q’s RnB Kickback. As a business owner, I run VALENAH, a community-based platform dedicated to fostering connections with ourselves, creating art through love, and honoring those who came before us.

In addition to painting, I craft handcrafted copper wire jewelry, create hand-drawn digital illustrations, curate events, and even offer tarot readings. I am a multifaceted being with many passions and an abundance of love to share with the world

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding part of being an artist is inspiring others by following my passion and sharing the knowledge I’ve gained over the years. There’s something truly magical about seeing someone light up when they connect with their own creativity. It feels incredible to guide others on their journeys, helping them discover their unique voices and passions. Watching them cultivate their own flames not only brings me joy but also reinforces the idea that we are all capable of creating something beautiful. It’s a reminder that art can be a powerful catalyst for personal transformation and community connection.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

It would be beneficial for society to create and maintain spaces where artists and creatives can collaborate, build community, and share skills without the pressure of commercial gain. Many people seek to promote artists but hesitate to compensate them fairly for their time, effort, and dedication. I believe we need dedicated spaces that foster genuine connections between artists and art collectors or those who truly appreciate art. These environments would not only support artists but also enhance the overall appreciation of creativity in our communities. Ultimately, valuing and investing in artists enriches society as a whole.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.valenah.com
• Instagram: @innerg.creationz
• Other: Patreon: VALENAH