We were lucky to catch up with Jaida Narkon recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Jaida thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

In 2011 I started my freshman year at Mount Ida College in Newton Ma, earning my undergraduate degree in Fashion Merchandising and Marketing. During my 4 years there was when my interest in graphics and different media started.

Using my skills learned, in 2015 I came home and started working locally in my hometown on Cape Cod creative social media graphics and related work. Over that next year, I realized I wanted to go back to school and further my understanding of the graphic design and media related world.

In 2017, I returned to school at Boston University to earn my Master’s Degree in Media Ventures in the School of Communications. There was the first time I really got to experience the graphic design world and took my first class to learn the basics of Adobe platforms such as Photoshop and Illustrator. From there, the rest was history.

I returned home to the Cape for the second time and opened my small business a year later. Using the skills and experience I gained over my years of schooling, combined with my love for fashion, and style – J.Alexis Designs was created. A brand focused on digital art and designs.

Jaida, 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?

I have worked in retail since I was 16, so it was totally expected that I would end up doing something in a creative field. I worked at a small boutique for a couple years after getting my Master’s and really got to learn the ins and outs of small business ownership, merchandising and all the creative aspects that come along with it.

J.Alexis Designs, showcases a unique spin on nautical art. Raised on Cape Cod, Jaida aimed to create something that encompassed her love of fashion, color, design and her coastal home town. After acquiring a Master’s degree in Media and Innovation, she returned home and started her next venture.

From there J.Alexis Designs was born, utilizing original digital designs that are then printed on everything from home decor to accessories. Whether it’s art prints or wooden wall hangings, J.Alexis Designs carries everything for the coastal art lover.

To date, what im most proud of is my willingness to stick with it. Year one of art fairs and shows was a total learning experience. Each time was a way to improve and showcase different items I carried. It’s still to this day trial and error but it’s a passion..something that keeps me happy and creative. It’s been almost 4 years since the start and I’ve come so far. From articles and features, to having wholesale customers and online orders, I’m happy I didn’t get discouraged too quickly.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Share artists on social media and word of mouth! I can’t tell you how many connections and sales I’ve made from someone reposting on their Instagram story or having a friend see a piece of art of mine on their wall.

It takes a few seconds to share or like an artist’s page or photo and truly means the world to the artist.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

I would saw Facebook groups and local resources! I had no idea how many groups there were on social media that had members will similar interest, ideas or businesses like mine! However, doing a simple search opened me up to a world of new ideas and inspiration from fellow crafters and artists.

Local resources as well have been a huge benefit to my small business. From community shows and events, to local advertisements – definitely find out about what your town and local community are doing to support the arts in your area.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jalexisdesigns.com
• Instagram: @j.alexisdesigns
• Facebook: J.Alexis Designs
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaidaanarkon/

Image Credits
First image – shoot with artwork (Joe Navas on Instagram (Organic Photography, Cape Cod Ma) All others shot by me