We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jessica Payes a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Jessica, appreciate you joining 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?

I started writing when I was about ten years old. It wasn’t until I was 18 that I began performing. I headed straight for the Nuyorican Poets Cafe and competed in their slam. I heard so many talented artists perform I was inspired by their dedication and presentation of their craft. It took time to grow into the artist I am today. I owe it to the colleagues I’ve met along the way and the community that always shows support. I’m still learning how to improve everyday and I’m fortunate to be able to express myself freely and without judgment.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Jessica and I am a spoken word artist, author, and writer. I started writing when I was 10 but it wasn’t until about a year ago that I decided to switch career paths. I’ve published a poetry book titled “Manipulated by love, sex, and depression” which focuses on the ups and downs of relationships. The book shares poems of heartbreak, grief, and mental health.

I currently have merchandise related to my debut poetry book available on my website strongerthanmypain.com. I’m hoping to continue expanding on merchandise to share awareness on mental health challenges. With merchandise I’m also working to provide a new way of experiencing my poetry through videography which will be available on my YouTube channel.

I’ve been performing for quite some time now. I’ve featured at various open mics and completed poetry slams over New York City and other states. I’ve also had the opportunity to work with planned parenthood and perform for Nicki Minaj’s mother, Carol Maraj.

I recently started a blog also available on my website. It’s a personal lifestyle type of blog however I am open to suggestions of other topics. I’m a social worker so some of the things I’d write about would be related to mental health, poetry, or personal anecdotes about either.

Poetry is a great release for me, and I think for some of the audience members too. I love connecting with listeners and readers especially when they share what resonated and why. I love being able to help people with my words. It’s a great feeling knowing that we truly are never alone.

“Through the darkest of days and the hardest of rain, always remember you are stronger than your pain.”

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Absolutely! Some days my goals frighten me because of the fear I might not make them happen. But my faith is stronger. I have many goals for myself and I’m working towards them day by day. I want to be a successful writer. I want to grow as an artist and fulfill all my dreams. I’m working on being cautious with who I share my plans with lately but the goal is to be successful in my own definition.

I also hope to continue breaking through the stigma of mental health. I’d love to shed light on diagnoses, treatment, and overall conversations about the topic. It’s something personal to me and I’d love to share my experiences in hopes of helping others.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

I think non-creatives struggle to understand the process of what it takes to become an artist. It takes years. I mean, maybe it’s less time for extremely talented people but for most, we don’t wake up one day and have it all figured out. I’m not sure my own parents understand what I’m actually trying to do creatively. For artists to become who they aspire to be it takes dedication, commitment and just enough time as a job would. The only difference is, you’re everything in between. The boss, the writer, marketing team, content creator, performer, there are multiple hats that are worn as an artist. Sometimes there may be sacrifices made in order to further advance your artistic career. This is where having support from friends and family is needed! Support your creative loved ones because the artistic journey is surely a difficult one.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.strongerthanmypain.com
• Instagram: @strongerthanmypain
• Youtube: Stronger Than My Pain

Image Credits
@Thirty1Eighty8