Interview with TheCreativeJenn

Hello TheCreativeJenn, You can tell us a little about yourself?

Hellooo! Well for starters, my name is Jenn. That isn't too obvious is it? Umm, I'm an independent artist running her own studio - oh and I have an unhealthy obsession for Zidane Tribal and Hello Kitty.

The Art has many meanings, one deeper than the other, depending on the person. What is the meaning of art for you?

To explain it all in one go - would be so impossible for me. Art is everything.. it's the food you eat, the places you discover, and anyone you come across. Art is a story within a story, and it ranges from the most read chapters to the unknown tales. Art is, in my view, the world we live in and the worlds we share with others.

How did you get started in the world of the arts?

I was just a wee child with her crayon box and multi-color construction paper, who only used the red and black crayon. At first I didn't know any better, but discovering art whether it was through a coloring book or even a secret note we used to pass in class under our desks, was key to helping discover my true interests for creating.

-How did you come to DeviantArt?

I was preferred to set up my first account [~Aiko-sama] under the impression of role-playing and making personal stories based on an OC with that particular name, but then a year after, I started to give myself a title the more I grew as an artist.

My name then was 0JennxYukina0 - I can thank an old high school friend of mine and my first ex-boyfriend for bringing DeviantArt to my attention when it was still a little bit young! Hard to believe my 10th DAnniversary will arrive this upcoming March, as TheCreativeJenn. What a journey.

 
What are the things you most appreciate about of your experience on DeviantArt?

I appreciate the people I can call my mentors and close friends! Without them, I wouldn't have the confidence nor the mindset to pursue my art like everyone else can. It's their high spirits and unique intake on making art that help refine my own. DeviantArt is the community I've always wanted to consider a second family.

What was your motivation to become you on a Community Volunteer?

For the sake of giving back to the community what the community gave to me - I wanted to be one that everyone could look up to, to answer notes, collaborate different challenges and creative projects, and also just to socialize with/influence those who feel they can't conquer their own dreams, by proving it to them. By believing in them.

At first I was skeptical about the rebooting of DeviantArt symbols (for those of you who don't know, we had ^hats as volunteers) - volunteers have hearts now! But it's obvious now it's for good reason. And as a passionate volunteer, I want to continue the legacy of Fan Art's predecessors and teach the newer pupils down the road for when they're given the same opportunity.

Most of us DeviantART users know that being a Community Volunteer comes with many responsibilities as well as real desire to help the community to grow. How would you describe your experience in this important work?

While each experience ranges per volunteer, I have to admit that it's a tough road for all of us. We're often challenged by the community, and even by the higher staff members here.

It's so important to have patience, faith, and a high level of maturity for all the operations we're associated with - and if you haven't got what it takes to be that leader, it can lead to a pretty bad result for you and whoever gets involved. Being a volunteer is absolutely fun, though! You get what you put into it, and you learn so much, right when you think you know it all to begin with. There is nothing like this, at least not in my book, to say it's an ordinary experience.

What do you like best about of the Fan Art Gallery?

The originality. Hey, what's with that look? You don't think Fan Art can actually be Original? Well, maybe less than what I actually express, but the artists behind the Fan Art and their consistent diversity to express their interests never ceases to inspire me or amaze me.

You're met with so many different walks of life from deviants that grew up with the same Saturday Morning cartoons as you, or even in the same neighborhood, reading the same comic books that had only cost a dime or a nickel. The point is, the world of Fan Art opens many doors for everyone and it's the gesture that we appreciate our ideas and we aim to keep the appreciation alive with our desired mediums.

What are the characteristics you consider on a work, when selecting a Daily Deviation?

Again, Originality. Let me see how far you're willing to mold the fandom into your own perspective! Technique. Vision! How much of an Impact will this give your audience? I don't necessariy consider an "all-or-nothing" selection, but the more it covers my guidelines, the bigger the chance that the audience will accept it.

How do you feel about helping the community in such a wonderful way?

It can be a challenge, but it's well worth it! Lately I've been wanting to do a lot more, but in order to do that, I must also make sure I'm in good standing. Nonetheless, this community, inside and out, is a factor I'm happy to contribute to.

What advice would you give to people who want to become a Volunteer of DA??

Please be patient after you apply. Please be active as much as you can. And PLEASE support those who are already volunteers! We seek partnership and understanding, and if you can provide that with whatever ideas you have in mind to grow and inspire the community, you're golden!

*A final comment on this interview. Did you like it?

Yes, it was a pleasure to be a part of this. Thank you kindly for giving me this opportunity! Love you, DeviantArt!