We recently connected with JJ Baker and have shared our conversation below.
JJ, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Was there an experience or lesson you learned at a previous job that’s benefited your career afterwards?
I have recently been thinking of former bosses that I worked with, especially bosses that were hardasses with high demands, and I’ve been incredibly appreciative of these people. I have been working my ass of since January during my final semester in grad school. I made three different bodies of work and curated them for my thesis exhibition. I read, researched, and wrote to complete my written thesis. I taught a figure drawing class. I cleaned my studio.
I am able to push myself to the limitis of my ability and energy because I had people in my life that pushed me. I think of former employees, coaches, and even my parents. I apprecate the people who held me to a high standard and encouraged me to push my self.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
My whole life I thought I was going to be an engineer, but then I went to art school on a whim. Halfway into school I realized that I wanted to spend the rest of my life making art. talking about art, and teaching others how to do the same.
I mostly work as a figurative Painter, but at the core of my practice is a commitment to experimentation and pushing myself to new places. I constantly absorb inspiration from movies, music, as well as people and places I interact with.
For me, artmaking and educating go hand-in-hand, and these are both things I’ll continue to do for the rest of my life.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
Learning. I always want to be learning about the world and my connection to it through the artwork I make and the people I teach. To do this, I keep an open mind and a curiosity about the world around me.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
Rick Rubin’s thoughts and writing on creativity have had a big impact on my working process. He focuses on creating the right environment and vibe for the best creative work to happen where anything is possible. Through the work, the rest will follow.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jjbakerart.com/
- Instagram: @jj.baker.art