Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaycee Hale.
Hi Jaycee, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Growing up, I’ve always had an interest in the arts, but was discouraged from trying. My education became very STEM-based — which is great, but I always felt that something was missing.
It wasn’t until the quarantine of 2020 that I discovered my creative abilities. The medium I explored first was acrylic painting, which I found to have a natural ability.
I painted nonstop during those isolating months, accumulating approximately 20 pieces of art.
I was then introduced to the art scene in San Antonio, becoming a regular at Brick’s Open Studio, where artists go to create with each other. I participated in many art markets, including First Friday. Since then, I’ve begun to explore other mediums such as oil paints, clay & colored pencils. I also a model and direct shoots with fellow artists as a form of expression.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely has not been easy embracing creativity and nurturing my talent. I spent a lot of time unlearning toxic thought patterns in regards to pursuing art, such as thinking it’s fruitless & shaking off my own inner critic, who is unforgiving.
Being creative is healing, it calms my inner child & brings me closer to my true self, but it also brings those feelings of never being good enough, and fear. Lots of fear. Struggling with anxiety and depression adds another, more intense layer, that usually leads to creative blocks.
Being able to be gentle with me during those times is key to pushing through. Having to work in order to afford to pursue my creative projects is also tough. There’s a struggle between wanting to put all of my energy into art and needing money to survive.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I do a lot of self-portraits, reflecting on my struggles with body dysmorphia. Sometimes I use my paintings as a diary, spilling all of my thoughts onto the canvas as a form of release. Skeletons are a common motif.
Growing up, skeletons were a symbol of decay, depression, and other negative emotions. Death is inevitable and doesn’t always have to be viewed as a scary & unapproachable experience. I have a rebellious spirit, and my art reflects that. I was told not to be an artist, to never own things with skeletons on them, and I’m going to do just that.
I usually sign my paintings with angel number 222, meaning that you are protected & on the right path. I tend to see this number a lot during depressive episodes & challenging times. Spirituality is important to me, and whether or not the viewer agrees, I want to provoke that healing energy in all of my work.
What’s next?
Currently, I’m on hiatus from art markets and public viewings, as I’m going through a bit of a creative resurgence. My style is changing as my thought process is.
I’m working on creating a collection and will be back to display my work when I feel emotionally ready. I will definitely be posting updates as they come! I plan on merging my art account with my main account, so be sure to follow @w0rshipjaycee on Instagram.
I work in education currently and am hoping to finish my degree in psychology soon. I’m always working towards realizing my goal of becoming a badass psychologist & artist.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/w0rshipjaycee
Image Credits
Gregory K Portraits and Dannysan Photography
