Zoey Alyssa TAKING OFF
Zoey has always been an artist-
Currently working as an independent artist and instructor full time, I look back and see the leaps that got me here. One big leap was sharing to the world that I … am an artist. The world may scoff and roll it’s eyes- “Well, what does that mean anyway?” Art by definition is the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power. And that’s what I do. But more importantly I share the process of this production with others not so confident in this field. Art for a long time has been considered a luxury but studies show over time that in order for communities, cities, and economies to thrive art must be present.
FINDING MY WAY
One thing for certain is I have always loved teaching and it has adorned me in return. An added edge of assurance and patience is spoken of often in regard to my presence in the class room. The classroom for me has almost always been the walls of an art studio.
In my last year of high school I knew I wanted a job with “purpose” straightaway. I stopped serving tables and called Brushing on Bisque Pottery & Art Studio - a local place at that time. I landed an interview (even though they were not hiring) and achieved a quaint job where a lot of experience could be gained. I eventually was teaching Saturday morning painting classes for children, adult weekend paint and sip classes of 25+ participants, clay classes, glass fusion, and planning summer camp programs. I gained a lot experience firing and maintaining the onsite kilns.
MY FIRST MURAL
In years to come, art was pushed off as a persistent hobby. Time not spent working odd jobs was devoted to the arts and furthering my talents. I preferred early morning shifts, waking before most including the sun itself. This left my afternoons and evenings open.
One odd day, at the local bagel shop I had an encounter with a regular. The typical small talk ensued, but I happen to step out of my norm and speak of life outside of work. I titled myself as an artist, and to my surprise it peaked this man’s interest. He asked me for my contact card - I at least had those at the time. Two paintings were purchased and he loved my style. Things truly seemed surreal when asked if I ever did a large scale piece. Like a mural? No, but I sure am capable, I claimed.
And so the story goes on, and I shifted jobs to a small, more upbeat, hole-in-the-wall café in the town over. My early shifts had a lot to do with getting to know the regulars.
I was excited about a new project on the horizon and change of scenery, but needed to know this was all going to work out (paint the side of someone’s house… I hadn’t done that before!).
Low and behold my sign waltzed through the door of this tiny café. A familiar face was greeted by the staff; a regular. But I did not need an introduction to this regular. Some people you are just predetermined to meet in my opinion. The universe works in mysterious ways, right? And this man was one of them. He seemed just as surprised to see me. “Are you following me now?” he joked.
TAKE OFF
Kings and Queens, Chiefs and figures of higher power (if successful) are usually adorned with very specific and intricate symbols. Jewels, beautiful beadwork, tailored uniforms and bold markings. This is no accident. Art shows a presence of abundance and therefore often related to luxury and not necessity. This abundance when present however, leads to stronger generations and overall healthier, confident contributing members to society. In hard times, art is often put on the back burner while basic needs of survival must be met. No one is thriving in these times; surplus isn’t present and neither is the time to create primarily for beauty or emotional power. Society is failing.
So what’s all this gibberish mean? It means art is a necessity to prosper. And that’s where I come in!
Knowing this and valuing my talents was the first step in “taking off”. You have to believe in yourself before anyone else can. Allow yourself to be obsessed with your quirky goals and live with intent.
As an artist my goal is to encourage creative thinking; creative thinkers manifest stronger communities. My full time job now is to create safe places for all walks of life within our homes, communities and cities.
I still find myself teaching whenever I can. I offer private lessons from time to time. If I host a clay workshop you can find me locally at Indian River Clay of Vero Beach. I also curate a handcrafted online shop. You can find some of my favorite supplies there, too! Find me also creating commissions and live event paintings, I do a little bit of everything with these brushes of mine!
