We were lucky to catch up with Jaia Robinson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jaia thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

Taking risk can improve your life tremendously, especially as a creative person. Throughout my career I’ve noticed when I try a new process or technique majority of the time I’m happy with the results. Growth is tied up in risk taking, I’m always searching for new ways to be uncomfortable, to challenge myself. During covid, I began cycling and had the bright idea to custom design my bike. I was new to cycling and had never designed/custom painted a bike let alone my own. Once I completed the project It lead me to several custom art opportunities.

Jaia, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I utilize vibrant colors and textures on canvas and wearable art. I aspires to create a positive environment and healthy emotions through the abstract expressionist style of painting. In many of my paintings bold brushstrokes and colors create a contrasting visual experience of rhythmic movement combined with contemplative stillness. My creativity was initially fueled by my upbringing as the youngest of three in St. Louis, Missouri, inspired by her own use of art as a way to communicate with her siblings as a child. I begin teaching art while completing my undergraduate studies. I received my B.A. in Art from Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia and my graduate in Arts education from Georgia State University. As an educator and arts advocate I emphasize the importance of arts in the classroom and use it as a tool to promote academic and personal success. My art is featured in private collections locally and internationally. My art has also crossed into other wearable formats such as custom shirts and jewelry that have been featured/sold in boutiques domestically. I was also a featured artist as the NAACP 100th year Anniversary Celebration at the Marriott Marquis in Atlanta.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

“I love life, and the unknowing of life’s experiences. For this reason I’m able to easily produce work, and adapt to changes. During the covid pandemic I was able to pivot and learn new technical skills that helped my business grow in the digital space. I began teaching classes on line and also earned another arts degree. My process is simple, yes I have a vision on what I would like the end result to be, but like life, my paintings and sculptures encounter new obstacles in which I have to adapt. Texture, form and color are all key ingredients in my work. Colors create such a beautiful environment, the way they complement one another is so special. I favor chance and control, and I incorporate both into my work” My goal is to show beauty in chaos, especially the challenges that Black women face in everyday life. How we continue to thrive and grow and show up with love and compassion in the mist of all of the challenges we encounter.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

Inspiring others to take risk and observing artists grow. My art has empowered people, especially the youth. They have an appreciation and respect for the arts, especially in education. I’m happy to be apart of such a powerful movement in the creative space.     

Contact Info:

• Instagram: artistjblu
• Linkedin: Jaia Robinson
• Youtube: Jaia Robinson
• Gmail: [email protected]