Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jenifer Roosevelt. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jenifer, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your creative career sooner or later?
Creativity has been a lifelong pursuit, beginning more or less informally in my early years. Looking back, I sometimes wish I had embarked on my creative career earlier. I’ve always been naturally drawn to the arts, winning some art contests, participating in music, drawing classes, and showing leadership qualities that would later become invaluable in my professional life. I see these experiences as more than just hobbies – they were clear indicators of my inherent passion for crafting and creating. Despite this, I pursued academic degrees and eventually found my way to a career in education. I am an elementary teacher which, in its own way, the work nurtures my creativity. Being a teacher is immensely fulfilling, but I sometimes daydream about an alternative route and wonder where dedication to a purely creative career might have led me.
Regardless, my experiences working with children enrich my creative perspective, allowing me to approach projects with a unique blend of creativity and practicality. So while part of me wishes for an earlier start in a strictly creative field, I also appreciate how my varied experiences have shaped me into the creative professional I am today.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
As I already mentioned, I am an elementary teacher by day…and often nights, weekends, and holidays, too, if I’m being perfectly honest! I break away at least a few times a week to be a bassist, vocalist, and songwriter in a North Hollywood band called Hat Pin Panic. I am also in a collaborative music group called The This & The That. The bands require a significant amount of work and dedication to not only maintain but also continually develop my craft. As a musician, I’m constantly pushing myself to explore new musical territories and to express myself in fresh and exciting ways. This often means long hours of practice, writing sessions, and studio time, but it’s a labor of love. It’s about storytelling, creating an emotional connection with the audience, and contributing to the music scene in Los Angeles. Despite the challenges and the hard work involved, the joy and fulfillment I get from seeing our music resonate with others make it all worthwhile.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
Well, I don’t believe that anyone is truly a non-creative. There isn’t a person I know who doesn’t make something! One aspect that self-proclaimed non-creatives might struggle to understand is that there is intrinsic value and importance of every effort, regardless of whether it culminates in a final, tangible project. In the creative process, every idea, every sketch, every draft, and every experiment plays a crucial role in the development and expression of the artist. These efforts are not wasted; they are essential stepping stones, each contributing to growth and the evolution of one’s work.
Another key aspect is the importance of embracing one’s vulnerabilities, such as shyness, embarrassment, and shame. These emotions are often seen as hindrances, but in the creative world, they can be powerful sources of inspiration and authenticity. By leaning into these feelings, rather than backing away from them, we can tap into a deeper level of personal expression and connect more profoundly.
Finally, the uniqueness of one’s personal voice cannot be understated. In a world filled with diverse perspectives and voices, only I can express my thoughts, feelings, and experiences in the way that I do. This authenticity is not just a means of self-expression; it’s a valuable contribution to the broader dialogue in the creative field. My journey as a creative is about finding and honing this voice, and understanding that what I have to say matters and adds to the richness of the artistic landscape.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
For me, one of the most rewarding aspects of being a creative is the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse range of individuals. This includes students in the classroom, my own child, friends, and even those who are more successful or experienced in the field than myself. Kids in particular carry fresh perspectives and uninhibited creativity often inspire me and remind me to view the world through a lens of curiosity and wonder. Collaborations with other artists are often marked by a sense of camaraderie and mutual support. Friends provide a safe space to experiment and take risks, which is crucial for artistic growth and innovation. Engaging with working creatives chance to glean insights from their journeys, understand different approaches and techniques, and push my boundaries. Their mentorship and guidance can be instrumental in helping me navigate my own creative path.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hatpinpanic.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hat_pin_panic/
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/thethisthethat/