Bold Journey Magazine: Interview with Artist Jay Alders

The following is a republishing of the interview between Artist Jay Alders and Bold Journey Magazine

Hi Jay, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

From my experience, purpose finds you. This sounds cliché so let me elaborate a bit. This is not to say that you can sit around the couch scrolling social media and binging Hulu and one day your purpose will come banging on your door.

Jay Alders live painting with G Love in Manasquan NJ Algonquin Theatre

I think too many of us spend too much time being apathetic and fearful. In order for purpose to find you, you have to make the Universe (or God, or whatever word you choose to insert here) know that you’re not only open to purpose but worthy and capable of following through.

But where do you start?

By trying things that you’re not comfortable with. Things that you’re curious about…do them. Things that are hard, push through until you feel some comfort. How do you know what food you like? By tasting everything.

Try everything and see what pulls you the most. What feeling or activity or pursuit or mission feels like you can’t get enough of it? Start there.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

As a full-time, fine artist, my artistic journey has been both deeply personal and professionally rewarding beyond comprehension.

My work, characterized by intricate brushwork, intense colors, and unique compositions, often features elongated figures and stylized forms. These elements reflect not just my creative vision, but also embody my passions and experiences.

I paint scenes ranging from surreal ocean waves to musicians jamming, to edgy figurative pieces. My art is a fusion of my love for surf & beach culture, love, fitness and outdoor activities, exploration of the external and internal, and music. This diverse range of influences allows me to connect with a broad audience, transcending traditional art boundaries.

My commitment to art extends beyond personal expression. I have had the privilege of collaborating with various talented individuals and organizations, and my work has been showcased in prestigious galleries and media outlets worldwide.

In every piece I create and every project I undertake, my aim is to inspire, provoke thought, and bring beauty into the lives of others. My journey as an artist is not just about creating art; it’s about crafting experiences that resonate with and impact the audience in meaningful ways.

I’m proud to say that my artwork has been on the cover of six album covers, three international magazines, a book cover, and exhibited and published worldwide.

I also enjoy live painting with some of my musician friends and find joy in creating something beautiful from thin air during the time it takes for a music show to take place.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

I’d say my ability to find pleasure from the whole process has been a huge asset. This includes not only the artistic process but also learning about and enjoying the business sides of what I do. There can be just as much creativity expressed in the marketing and sales strategies as the actual art at times.

Additionally, I think being fine with delayed gratification which comes down to patience. This is a vital skill that many people don’t possess. Everything takes time and those who expect or want immediate success rarely find it. You have to do it for the love of the journey not just for the shiny trophy.

Lastly, I’d say that being ok with a healthy dose of calculated risk is important. Being a professional artist often means less money, less stability, less guarantees than most of your friends and peers. Some months can be wonderful, others can be very slow and it’s a mental exercise of being optimistic while also running like hell from failure that let’s you eventually come out ahead.

As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
This might be a surprise coming from an artist, but “Rich Dad, Poor Dad” was one of the most impactful books to me as a small business owner and solopreneur.

This should be mandated reading for everyone.

Some of the many lessons are learning about healthier ways to look at money and the importance of diversifying your income streams.

The author Kiyosaki talks about investing and building assets versus just earning more, Artists need to learn to not only rely on your commissions and sales but to invest in your business and invest in things that will produce passive income.

The more financial freedom one has, the calmer generally your mind can be which opens up the creative pathways.

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