We were lucky to catch up with Jenny Tam recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jenny, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

Art and creativity feel like oxygen. It keeps me alive, thoughtful, and connected to humanity and myself. I love the feeling of being challenged as a creator and actress. I enjoy how it makes me feel and I can only hope that it evokes the same sense of connection for audience members and loved ones who take the time to witness my process and art. It keeps me youthful, imaginative, and yes, happy. I have had ‘regular jobs’ and am still seeking ‘regular jobs’ to sustain myself financially, but I can not give up art– not in this lifetime.

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.

My name is Jenny Tam, and I am a local Twin Cities actress passionate about storytelling and community building. I think art and media build cultural revolutions, and I want to take part in shaping how future generations see the world and themselves. I was brought to tears seeing a full Asian American cast for the first time in theaters. Sometimes, you don’t know how instrumental art can be on you until you experience it. And still, there is so much work that has to be done in telling stories that resonate with our communities. That is why I continue to act; I hope to plant seeds in Minnesota with other BIPOC creatives in town.

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

We need to build the economy and network to support artists. We need to see value in the work artists are doing and then make sure that there are enough resources and community support to uplift the livelihood, intelligence, and work of our local artists. We also have to take the time and care to foster the development of local talent and stories and young folks curious about their creative journey.

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

Art and creating brings me closer to myself and humanity. Acting challenges to understand and build deep empathy for a variety of people and to fall in love with the imperfections and flaws of each character. Empathy and love often transcend the stage and reach everyone I come across. I can only hope that people who get to witness my craft can take a piece of it with them.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @jennyytamm
• Linkedin: @jennyytamm
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbzZXqp09M0x8Cu62AKDNQg