We had the good fortune of connecting with Jessie Reyna and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jessie, can you share a quote or affirmation with us?
One of my favorite quotes is by Andy Warhol: “Don’t think about making art, just get it done. Let everyone else decide if it’s good or bad, whether they love it or hate it. While they are deciding, make even more art.”

I can relate to this quote because I’m wonderful at coming up with ideas for projects, but I have a hard time just doing it for fear of failing. I’m more anxious about trying to put my vision onto canvas, and not being satisfied with the process and the outcome. Just like any other artist, I go through creative ruts. I’ll stumble across an artist or two whom I greatly admire due to their style, subject, and color, and think to myself, “THAT. That’s what I want to do.” Then I struggle to figure out how to make it my own, without appreciating the fact that I’m trying it, regardless of whether someone sees it or not. Most of the time, being an artist consists of trying something out, realizing it’s not working, and then starting over. Often, I forget that the most important thing is that I’m creating, everyday, even if I have to start over later.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
For most of my life, I painted and practiced drawing up until my sophomore year in college. I found myself not enjoying my studio classes at my university, and my dislike of drawing became evident. Creating was always something I had, and it was a huge part of who I was, so I decided to switch majors and take a break. Little did I know, that break was going to last six years.

During those six years, I moved from job to job, and was unable to find happiness. Now that I was in the real world, I had trouble figuring out my path and that terrified me. Everyone around me encouraged stability, and while that’s not a bad thing, it took me a long time to figure out that stability wasn’t everything. In 2016, I bought a cheap set of watercolors and began painting again, and it took roughly five years to actually find my style and favorite subjects to paint.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned since 2016 is to take a chance and apply to opportunities, even if you don’t think you’d be able to accomplish it. One of the first risks I took was submitting to a small show in Brooklyn, NY. I was living in Connecticut at the time, and I took an hour long train into the city, took three different subways, and walked another thirty minutes just to drop off the painting. The painting didn’t sell, and I probably spent more money just to get it there, but to me, it was worth it. I was able to say I was a part of something, no matter how small it was. I try not to let location or my full-time job get in the way. If I find something I’m interested in, I’ll tell myself, “If I get in, I’ll figure out how to make it happen.”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
One of my favorite things to do in Charleston is simply walking around downtown in the evening, particularly in the quieter neighborhoods like the French Quarter, South of Broad, and Harleston Village. My main reason is because the houses at night are absolutely stunning. There’s a certain feeling I get when I walk past the old houses with the lanterns flickering and the porches lit up. For the first time, in a very long time, it actually feels like home to me. After walking through the neighborhoods, we’d need to stop at the Charleston City Night Market. I’m honestly surprised by the amount of tourists who don’t realize that there is a night market. If you like a funkier vibe, it’s the perfect place to shop!

If we are wanting a quick and unique bite to eat, Queen Street Grocery is a must-have. Not only is the food delicious, but it’s in an adorable old grocery store that has stayed true to itself all of these years. Find a seat outside, and you can watch the horse and carriages stroll by while enjoying the beautiful weather. A great place to get some fresh air is Boone Hall Plantation. You get a little bit of everything – fascinating history, romantic mansion, and glorious gardens in the Spring and Summer.

Last, but not least, head over to Summerville for a small town feel and pop into The Azalea. It is now an absolute favorite of mine. You feel like you’re stepping back into time with rows of antique books and paintings, dim lighting, cozy couches and intimate small tables for you and your date, and a long list of traditional cocktails like an Old Fashioned, Vodka Martini, and some of their own creations as well.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The first person I have to give a lot of credit towards is Julia Deckman. When she decided to open her own studio on James Island, I was lucky enough to meet her and become her assistant a couple of days a week. I learned a lot from her as an artist between merchandising, opportunities within Charleston, wholesale orders, packaging, and more. She introduced me to a lot of other artists in the community, and it really opened my eyes to other styles and mediums. The most important thing I learned from them is that it’s completely okay to be weird with your art. Paint what you want, not what you think everyone else wants. She encouraged me to take chances, and for that, I’m so thankful.

The second person I have to give a shout out to is my husband. He’s been a champion throughout my growing career. It’s not easy working a full-time job, building my art career, as well as being a mother. I’m able to make the most out of my opportunities due to his support and care for our son, and I love the team we have made.

My third shout out is to the Charleston vendor community. I’ve been on the market scene for about two years now, and I’ve met so many wonderful people along the way. The vendors in this city really have each other’s backs and we have a certain understanding of one another. They have made the markets in town enjoyable, and I’ve even learned a few hacks here and there to make the day smoother. By the end of the day, you feel as though you’ve made a best friend.

Website: www.jessiereyna.com

Instagram: @jessiereyna_art

Image Credits
The Station Park Circle Christina Percario Chris Ackerman

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