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

Summer, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve had this dream of being something more in this world. Looking back, I’d say it was this innate need to express myself someway somehow. My life as an artist has been a series of exploring different mediums – anything that gives my spirit the platform to create and keep my mind and hands busy. Throughout elementary and middle school, I took choir classes, practiced the flute and made so many friendship bracelets. As high school came around, I felt too shy to be a performing artist. By the time I was 15, I started exploring photography and continued to practice the skill into college. Studying art gave me the opportunity to dive into multiple mediums, which ultimately led me to discover painting. Post grad life, I stopped creating and fell victim to the corporate world for a few years, but eventually I picked my paintbrush back up and promised myself I would never again silence my inner artist. I think sometimes as creatives, we can fall prey to the idea that we aren’t good enough or that art isn’t a worthwhile path financially, therefore one does not end up pursuing it professionally. For me, I’ve had to be patient with my journey as I am still working full time while building my career as an artist. And that’s the wonderful thing about the artistic path – the artist gets to create their own journey. Nothing is set and stone. I believe the right doors will open for me as long as I continue to create and put myself and my work out there.

Summer, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I am a California native and am currently based in Los Angeles. I create pop art, acrylic and mixed media paintings that evoke emotions and feelings. My paintings make a statement in the room they exist in, whether that is to make you smile, let out your inner child, empower your mind, or confront the part of you that tries to hide. I am inspired by my experiences, relationships and the things I learn throughout my journey. I am proud of my eccentric creativeness – I do not conform to one style fits all. My art gives me the opportunity to play in the process of creation and trust that my intuition will lead my hand to birth the artwork into existence.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Yes! I love reading and filling my mind with positive sustenance. My favorite book is called “101 essays that will change the way you think” by Brianna Wiest. I’ve read this book through and through about 3 times and it literally changes the way I think every time. The essays allow you to see life through a new lens and challenge you to grow your mindsets in every area of your life. I believe it is essential as an entrepreneur to continuously learn and feed your mind with knowledge.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

That’s such a big question. I feel like there are a few! First and foremost is the act of creation itself – the energetic exchange from the mind and hand to the canvas. I love giving life to something that never existed before and seeing it blossom before my eyes. It is a privilege to use self-expression to process my emotions and thoughts. I also find it rewarding when someone finds meaning or clarity for themselves in my work. I don’t think my art is for everyone, but I am grateful for the select niche of people that it does resonate with.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.summerbreezeart.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/summerbreeze.art