Meet Jolene Smith

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jolene Smith.

Hi Jolene, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Growing up in the islands (Trinidad and Tobago) being the last of six I’ve always been inspired by my siblings that was also interested in art. My family and I moved to New York when at the age of 11. My art was placed on pause. It was a new place new culture to learn. The move was pretty big for my family. A new experience, a new path on this journey of life. I eventually started high school and that brought art back into my life. Taught a range if different techniques. I graduated (2006). But my art was then again placed on pause yet again because shortly after high school I became a mom (2007), got married to someone in the military (2008) and moving to Colorado (2009). As my daughter (Jessica) grew I realized she too had a love for art which not only inspired me but motivated me to get back to my first love and also teach her in the process. Which opened the door to me attending college (PPCC 2014) for not only me but for my daughter as well to inspire her as she did me. To show her that she has talent and that she can flourish if she continues to work on it. She was been always been my motivation. As any mom would want nothing but the best for their child. Success and happiness and I strive everyday. Show her all he can achieve and more. I got divorced in 2016 (while in college) it was the hardest time of my life. I became a single parent and even then I still got myself through school.

Balancing making time for art, being a mom, working and taking care of my mental health. Rough times but as she grew we grew closer, stronger and just became an unstoppable team. She would push me to draw and I would do the same or we would challenge each other. My teachers would allow me to bring her so she was able to see what a college classroom looked like plus work on art projects. It was such an amazing experience. I was always scared to show my work didn’t know how people would accept it. It was a friend that I did some projects with that encouraged me to show my work (2016) So little by little I would put artwork out and the feedback and positivity was always on point. I created a new Instagram page Jodrawsablank and over time created a website..presented work and promoted my business. I’m gotten so many clients till a few came back. Until covid hit and it slowed. down a lot, projects were nonexistent. It was hard. But I didn’t give up I also work as a CNA I would travel with my computer and get work done when I can. Continuously working on my craft. Fast forward to today clients are starting to roll in, I am engaged to an awesome man, my art is being shared and my daughter’s art has progressed so much. Looking to start here a business too.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
This year makes it ten years that I’ve been working as a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant). I just have a genuine love for what I do. To be able to help others, to make someone’s day better had always been my thing. I love making people laugh and smile. The job just fits!!

If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Fun-loving, goofy, jokester. Was really quiet at school. But when with friends or family all of the above.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.jodrawsablank.com
• Instagram: Jodrawsablank
• Facebook: Jodrawsablank