Where are you originally from? What city in Florida are you currently located in?

I was born in New York but my family moved me to Fl when I was one year old. I grew up in New Port Richey, FL but have been living in Melbourne for about five years.

What would you say is your favorite part about living in Florida?

Everything but the politics. I love the sunshine, being a short drive from the water no matter where you live, the wildlife, nature trails, and no snow!

Are there any spots in your city that you would recommend other creatives to check out?

Any local park on the river, The Derek Gores Gallery, Apocalypse Coffee Roasters, The Sun Shoppe, and Christopher Maslow's Gallery. If you're inspired by music like I am then Iron and Oak has some cool shows and Punk in the Park at Rotary Park.

About

Can you introduce yourself in a few words? Tell us a bit about your creative background.

Hello, I'm Devon Jane. I grew up with my dad who was also an artist and it peeked my interest at an early age. I can't remember a time in my life when I wasn't creating something. I took every art class in high school but took a 10-year hiatus before going for my associate's due to some poor life choices. I currently am about to wrap that AA up and go on to a BA in Art History. In the last three years, I've started showing my art in local shows and Orlando.

What's your favorite part about being an artist?

This is a difficult question. My favorite part about being an artist is the ability to create something out of my emotional roller coaster of a heart and brain battling each other.

Are there any artists who have inspired you and still inspire you today?

My father and grandmother, Christopher Maslow, Alex Pardee, Georgia Okeefe, Vincent Van Gogh, and Artemisia Gentileschi.

Outside of your creative field, do you have any passions or hobbies?

I love cooking, gardening, and exploring.

Creative Process

How do you approach a new project or idea?

I either sketch a rough draft in my sketchbook as soon as I can after an idea strikes, start painting it immediately or become inspired by a sketch.

Could you walk us through your typical creative process?

First, the idea. Sometimes I sketch out an idea for a painting but don't act on it for months, sometimes years. When the creative bug bites I set up my paint water, moon water preferably, brushes, and pallet on top of my art cart that holds everything and anything I could need. Either music or animated movies need to be on in the background. Then, the painting process begins. Typically I paint an outlined rough draft of the subject matter and start filling in the background first. Sometimes a painting is finished in a single sitting or two, sometimes two years later. I have no explanation for this it just is what it is. Also, I rarely paint after the sun goes down. Natural lighting is my favorite source of light for creating.

What tools do you find most useful to your work?

My three main paintbrushes.

Challenges

What has been your biggest challenge as an artist, and how did you overcome it?

My biggest challenge has been self-confidence. Through time and work on myself, it has gotten better but there is more work to be done.

How do you handle criticism or negative feedback on your work?

It depends on the source. Most of the time I can take what I need and leave the rest, you know?

What do you do when you experience creative blocks? 

I try to change up my scenery. Explore more, go to more museums, and experience new things like food and music. Activities that inspire me.

Personal Insights

How would you define creativity?

The act of bringing your imagination to life.

Do you think creativity is something that a person is born with - or do you think creativity is developed?

I believe everyone is born with creativity of varying degrees. I think art happens when a person develops that creativity.

How do you balance your creative work with other aspects of your life?

I don't haha! I'll let you know when I balance it all.

What has been your most valuable learning experience, either in art or life, that has influenced your work?

To be open-minded- I don't know everything.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists out there?

Believe in yourself, put your work out there, and don't let haters stop you from creating.

Future and Aspirations

What are your future goals or aspirations as an artist?

For one, bigger canvases. I want my art to be seen and understood around the world. I want to inspire others to live their truths and spark their imagination.

Are there any new skills or mediums you'd like to explore in your future projects?

OIL! I would also love to get back into ceramics.

How would you like people to remember you?

As a quirky, down-to-earth, passionate ray of light in the lives of those I love.

Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with us, it was a pleasure learning about you and your journey as an artist. Is there anything else you'd like to share or promote with Fewords readers?

To the creators: Find a partner who is your biggest fan (if relationships are your thing). Take in feedback but always follow your intuition.

Check out more of her work

Website, Instagram