We recently connected with Mercedez Rex and have shared our conversation below.

Mercedez, appreciate you joining 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?

Most days I feel super lucky to earn a living as an artist; teaching workshops and helping others tap into their creativity feels like really meaningful work and I am happy to do it. I do sometimes imagine what my life might be like if I just had a regular job. I was talking to a friend recently who landed a cushy job at a start up- she works from home two days a week and has the option to go into the office 3 days a week. When she’s at the office she has access to a gym, unlimited snacks and they have lunch delivered from local restaurants. She’s got a great salary, 401K match, paid time off and annual company retreats. Hearing her go on and on about the perks and amenities, I felt a pang of jealousy as I imagined what it would be like to have predictable income…

6 months later I hit the road and have been on a 2 month road trip that was built around a cool freelance gig. This trip has been incredible, and the freedom to pick up and go is something I really appreciate about my life as an artist.

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

I am an artist and designer specializing in a mono-printing process called water marbling. It’s an ancient art form that involves floating pigments on the surface of thickened water then using various tools to make patterns which can then be printed onto fabric, paper or leather. I have a background in textile surface design and marbling was something I had wanted to try- from the moment I did I fell completely in love with the art form and wanted to share the magic with others.

I started teaching classes, doing DIY marbling activations and offering private art parties and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. I truly believe that everyone is creative and that the key is finding the thing that ignites your creative fire. Marbling is so intuitive- the people I teach come away feeling inspired and encouraged to pursue a creative practice.

Additionally I do freelance design work for interior designers, fashion brands and have my own line of marbled silk scarves and accessories.

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

For me, I truly am driven to help others tap into their creativity. Developing a creative practice has been shown to help people regulate the nervous system and de-stress. It’s another tool just like therapy or spending time in nature.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

Some advice I got from a creative podcast helped me- the question was “what is your value proposition?” In other words- what do you have to offer your audience, give them a reason to follow you.

Based on that advise, in addition to showcasing my art work I have made a point to do post detailing my journey as an artist, highlight the work of other artists I find inspiring and share wisdom from creative thought leaders like Julia Cameron (of the best selling book “The Artists Way”).

Contact Info:

• Website: mercedezrex.com
• Instagram: @mercedezrexdesigns
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mercedezrex
• Linkedin: Mercedez Singleton