Let’s build better connections with Jen Pearson.

• What's Your Favorite Show? Does It inspire you in anyway?
  I have many favorite shows including Insecure, Tower of God, and Succession. I watch a lot of anime so it definitely inspires me when I watch something new, or when art progresses in whatever series I'm watching at the moment. I usually end up drawing after I watch a couple of episodes and see where it takes me.
  

• When did you discover your creativity?
  My grandmother and mother stumbled upon my creativity at 5 years old, but I didn't acknowledge it until I was 29 years old. I was always enrolled in art classes when I was younger, but I wasn't confident in my work at the time. Now that I'm older, I understand the importance of having your own style and enjoying yourself. Now I'm starting to enjoy the work! During the beginning of the pandemic, I told close friends that I wanted to try my hand in illustration. Everyone was so supportive, which made this journey a lot easier.
  

• What's the biggest challenge you have and how are you going to overcome it?
  My biggest challenge is time management. I stay up half the night drawing and it helps to clear my mind. Unfortunately, if I'm not getting the appropriate amount of sleep, I could really get sick. I'm going to overcome this challenge by learning to say "no" and sticking with a schedule. Once I do those two things, I'll get better sleep and can provide quality work for myself and others.
  

• If money wasn't a factor what would you be doing?
  If money wasn't a factor would definitely open up a creative playhouse for myself, but make it big enough to invite my friends so they can work on what they want. There would be different rooms dedicated to so many disciplines. Also, I'd include rooms to give people a brain break and play games. Finally, I would complete the space with a shoezeum. It would be awesome! I'd keep working on projects and doing it with people I really respect. Another must is making sure the youth has everything they need if they want to create. I would set up a fund for them and provide resources to help them learn and grow.
  

• What are some things you're researching the most right now?
  Right now, I'm researching a lot of line art and hoping to get a better grasp of the technique. I'm also researching patterns, textures, and models. I want to bring more to my drawings and I want to surprise myself with a creative concept. I don't know what the concept is yet, but I know with research and practice my style is going to improve. I'm really excited about that possibility!
  

• What's the most surprising thing you've learned about yourself and why?
  The most surprising thing I've learned about myself is my level of patience, or maybe I'm surprised at the level of peace I have when I'm creating. With every edit and critique comes more and more patience. I'm learning to go with the flow and create what inspires me instead of focusing on trends. Doing what is true to me is actually paying off. It's important to find your style, enjoy it, continue to practice and grow. I'm so glad I have another outlet that I can control and build great ideas from.