We were lucky to catch up with Jessica Contreras recently and have shared our conversation below.

Jessica , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your creative career sooner or later?

I wouldn’t wish to have started my creative journey sooner or later. While I’ve always had a creative spirit, there have been moments of doubt and uncertainty in my artistic journey, times when I didn’t feel good enough or worthy of recognition. However, I wouldn’t change a thing because those low points have been invaluable. They’ve made me stronger and more resilient. I’ve persevered and pushed through the negativity, and it’s precisely these challenges that have shaped me into the artist I am today. Each step, even the difficult ones, had been an essential part of my creative evolution.

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’m Jessica Contreras, and Ive been on a creative journey throughout my 40 years of life. Art has been my constant companion, shaping my world since I was a child. While I’ve always been naturally creative, I also dedicated a few years to attending art school, honing my skills and deepening my understanding of the craft.

As an artist, I’ve found my true calling in painting and crafting, and my work is deeply rooted in the vibrant traditions of Dia de los Muertos. This cultural celebration holds a special place in my heart, and it’s the primary theme of my artistic endeavors. Throughout my creations, I strive to convey the beauty and richness of Mexican culture. It’s my way of sharing this incredible heritage with the world, allowing people to experience its colors, traditions, and unique charm.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

In my view, it is crucial for society to recognize and actively support artists and creatives to foster a thriving creative ecosystem. First and foremost, society needs to acknowledge the profound impact of art on our mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Art can be therapeutic and transformative, serving as a means of self-expression and healing,

One vital step is promoting the arts in schools, ensuring that young minds have access to creative outlets and education. By nurturing creativity from and early age, we not only empower future generations of artists but also instill and appreciation for the arts in society as a whole.

Additionally, individuals and communities should actively get involved and immerse themselves in the arts. Whether it’s attending exhibitions, supporting local artists, or participating in creative activities, this engagement is essential for a vibrant creative ecosystem. Ultimately, recognize the significance of art and fostering creativity can lead to a more enriched and harmonious society.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Yes, there’s something I believe non-creatives may struggle to understand about my and many artists journey. Sometimes, artists can get an unfair reputation. We might be seen as eccentric or different, but whats often misunderstood is that a creative mind is constantly racing, striving to craft something beautiful, whether for personal satisfaction or the share with the world.

The stigma surrounding artistic individuals can be frustrating. All we want is to create and offer something enjoyable to everyone or just ourselves. Even those who don’t consider themselves artistic derive joy from the things they see, wear, or experience in their daily lives. Art is ubiquitous, and its impact can’t be denied. It’s not just about eccentricity; it’s about the passion to create and share beauty in all its forms , enriching our collective human experience.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @papercutsandcactusthorns

Image Credits
Joshua Williams