Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Katie Jean. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Katie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

Fun fact: I DO have a regular job! I’m currently thriving as the Marketing Lead at Shaper Tools. Balancing this role with my personal passion for art has been incredibly rewarding. At Shaper, I channel my creativity into unique marketing strategies during the day, which allows me to transition into my evening art time with both digital and traditional painting.

I’ve always valued the ability to merge a stable career with my artistic pursuits without feeling the need to sacrifice one for the other. I’m fortunate to have a position that not only provides a consistent income but also energizes my creative spirit, keeping me fulfilled and never feeling burnt out. It’s a perfect blend—enjoying the professional role I love while also nurturing my passion for art.

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

I’m a digital artist with a flair for marketing, having nurtured my skills with an Associate’s degree under the inspiring guidance of Professor Tyrus Clutter, and further refining my self-marketing techniques at SCAD. Art has always been my calling, and I thrive on creating digital and traditional artworks that resonate deeply with people.

At the heart of my work is a desire to spark joy and laughter through custom commissions that range from vibrant character designs to expressive portraits and beyond. I’m passionate about connecting with my audience on an emotional level, ensuring each piece not only captures their imagination but also brightens their day.

I take pride in my resilience, especially in an era where AI-generated art is on the rise. My commitment to authentic, handcrafted art underscores the unique value of personal creativity. Each project is more than just a commission—it’s a collaborative experience designed to surpass expectations and create lasting impressions.

For anyone discovering my work, I want you to feel the energy and dedication I pour into every creation. Whether you’re a client, follower, or fan, you’re getting a piece of art that’s crafted with heart and meant to make a positive impact.

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

To really support artists and keep the creative scene buzzing, society can start by investing in arts education and offering more grants to help creatives get going. A big help is also just sharing artists’ work on social media—it’s a simple way to boost their visibility without spending a dime. Plus, choosing to engage with genuine, human-made art over AI-generated pieces can make a big difference. It’s all about creating a community vibe where artists feel valued and supported.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

One lesson I had to unlearn, thanks to my journey through the online art community, was the notion that using references somehow makes you less of an artist. Early on, I encountered voices that were quite extreme, declaring that “you’re not a real artist if you use references!” This idea was disheartening because references are a fundamental tool for most artists, enhancing accuracy and depth in our work.

The backstory here is all about navigating the choppy waters of online criticism. There’s always someone ready to critique your method or style. I learned that it’s crucial to ignore those who seek to tear you down and to embrace what works best for your creative process. The key takeaway? “Do you.” Embrace your methods, use references if they help, and focus on developing your unique artistic voice.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helloitskeetie
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/helloitskeetie
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/artbykjean
• Twitter: https://www.x.com/helloitskeetie
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@helloitskeetie