EPISODE NINE: Jade Ferguson
The Art of Making Art: A Journey from Commercial Streets to Artistic Heights
Welcome to the Art of Making Art podcast! Today, we feature Jade Ferguson, a remarkable artist and commercial photographer. Jade shares her unique journey and insights on balancing the worlds of commercial and fine arts, marked by a winding path, successes, challenges, and future aspirations.
Jade's story is not just about photography; it's about resilience and finding one's true passion. Originally planning to study photography, she ended up in behavioural science, leading to a 15-year career in advertising and media. Despite moving away from her initial love of photography, her journey came full circle when she returned to university to earn a Bachelor of Visual Arts.
Balancing a freelance photography business and an emerging career as an artist, Jade has found a way to blend commercial success with artistic fulfilment. She emphasizes the importance of trusting creative instinct and exploring conceptual boundaries, especially during times when the path may seem undefined.
Jade highlights the role of community and other artists in overcoming imposter syndrome. Participation in art competitions like the Brisbane Portrait Prize shifted her perception, empowering her to face the world with confidence as both an artist and a commercial photographer.
When asked about the artistic highlights of her career, Jade shares the profound impact of meaningful collaborations, such as designing album covers for musicians. These projects allowed her to express creativity beyond traditional commercial constraints, harmoniously blending artistry with client vision.
The blog underscores public misconceptions about photography, particularly its costs and the value of expertly crafted images. Jade notes that while anyone can take a photo, the artistry lies in mastering the technical elements and creating a timeless visual narrative.
Returning to university rekindled Jade's creative zeal, pushing her to break from the perfectionism that comes with technical proficiency. The vibrant, curious student community taught her to embrace experimentation and exploration, enriching both her conceptual and technical abilities.
Jade's final advice to fellow artists and photographers champions persistence: "Make, make, make, and just keep making." She emphasizes that it is through the continuous act of creation, despite self-doubt and external comparisons, that artists find their unique voice and vision.
In closing, Jade encourages artists to maintain steadfast belief in their craft and embrace the transformative journey of self-discovery and creation.
Embark on your creative journey, and remember that every step taken is a step towards finding and becoming the artist you are meant to be.
Links: Instagram @visualpoetsociety @jadefergusonartist
LinkedIn: Visual Poets Society
Website: Visual Poets Society
Copyright and attribution resource: Image Makers Association
This episode is possible with sponsorship by Scotney Creative Solutions.
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