Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jason Humphrey. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jason, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?
I am happy to be an artist, as it was my destiny all of my life.
I drew as a kid, I would draw in class at school. I never played sports as a kid, I would sit in my room and read books, and draw. Art was always at the forefront of my life, but I never thought about it being a career.
When I was dating my wife, I told her one day that I knew how to draw. She didn’t believe me, so I grabbed a pen and drew Batman. She was amazed, and from that point on, she made small strides to get me to create.
Those small steps included taking me to San Diego Art Walk. Seeing other artists, and talking with them opened up something deep within me.
I took a basic art class at Grossmont Community College after getting out of the Navy. From that point on, I would be a creative. Working 14 years at the San Diego Union Tribune, 5 years at Sharp Memorial, and 5 years at a mobile surgical laser company. I started doing San Diego art shows while working these jobs. So while I worked full time, I also showed my art.
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 became a full time artist from never quitting, and from connecting with other artists. I started doing shows up in Northern California, and so people appreciated my unique style.
Art is subjective, and artists need to develop their own style. Sometimes it takes years. Having work that is unique to you is key. When I force work, the energy in it is stale. When u really enjoy creating something, it always finds the right home. I grew up in the 80’s, so Saturday morning cartoons, bright colors, and comic books are big nostalgic influences for me. I have been fortunate that people feel joy and happiness from my art. The best compliment I receive is when someone says “I have never seen anything like this”
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is having my art accepted into peoples homes. I never take it for granted. I’m going to draw, and paint anyway. The fact that people appreciate my art is something that brings me pure joy. To create something on a blank canvas that connects with someone is very special. Art is a connection, and I feel that everyone has some form of artist in them. It may be through how they dress, how they decorate, it may be writing, it might be cooking. I believe everyone should have something that they do for themselves that they really like. A hobby can become a living.
Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?
My goal is to have people understand that each one of us is special, and unique. This life is a short one, and it is important to enjoy the journey. My biggest lesson in life is to enjoy the journey. Sometimes you reach a goal, and then don’t know what to do. You work so hard, and finally get the thing you want, and realize it’s just a thing. The getting there is the thing! Enjoy the ups and downs, the lessons, and the connections made.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://we.originalinkart.com
- Instagram: originalinkart
- Facebook: originalinkart
- Linkedin: Jason Humphrey
