020: Jan Mariz Fernandez
Jan Mariz Fernandez, a student at the University of Guam, is pursuing her dream of becoming an art teacher.
Jan Mariz Fernandez
She defines art as a form of expression, conveying thoughts, emotions, ideas, and experiences. Art isn't just a chosen path but a natural inclination to express herself through various mediums.
Jan’s ethnicity and upbringing have significantly influenced her art, with many pieces reflecting her journey with mental health, a topic often considered taboo in her Asian household. To this end, she found solace and a voice through art, breaking the silence and sharing her story with others. Her journey into art then began at a young age, nurtured by early exposure to drawing and classes.
Jan Mariz Fernandez
Nature is a recurring theme in Jan's art, including animals, people, and plants. She doesn't have a signature addition to her artwork, preferring her creations to speak for themselves. Jan's creative process involves selecting the right medium, gathering references, and allowing the piece to evolve as she works on it. When faced with creative blocks or lack of motivation, she pushes herself to start working, often finding inspiration from her interests like animated films and video games.
Struggling with perfectionism and self-criticism, Jan finds it challenging to let go of the idea of her art not being good enough. Yet, she recognizes the role of artists in society as creators who inspire and spread messages, adding vibrancy to everyday life.
Jan Mariz Fernandez
As her art evolves, Jan has moved beyond portraits and explored different styles and media. For her, art is a source of joy, reminding her of the beauty in everything.
To read Jan’s full interview, continue reading below. Also, check out her work on Instagram. Thanks again!
Jan Mariz Fernandez
Describe what you do.
I am currently a student at the University of Guam studying to become an art teacher.
How would you define art?
Art is a form of expression that conveys our thoughts, feelings/emotions, ideas, and experiences in the best way possible.
Why did you choose your art form?
I don’t think I “chose” my art form necessarily. I feel like it’s something that I merely gravitated towards because I like that I get to express myself through my art style.
How has your ethnicity/race affected the type of art you make?
Although I don’t have a specific art style, a lot of my works relate to my mental health and tend to be more personal, portraying my thoughts and emotions.
Growing up in an Asian household, I was taught to internalize my feelings and emotions and that discussing any topic relating to mental health was “taboo.” To top it off, I was never good at putting my thoughts and feelings into words. Therefore, I started using art as a way to express myself and share my story with others.
How did you get into art?
I’ve always been interested in drawing since I was very young, but taking art classes during my elementary and middle school years made me want to keep learning and improving my skills.
Who do you idolize?
Artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Frida Kahlo.
Where do you get your inspiration?
I often find inspiration from my own personal thoughts, feelings, and experiences, as well as from nature and checking out local art exhibitions.
What do you do when you're stuck on an artwork or lacking motivation or inspiration?
For me, the best thing to do is to just start. Whenever I’m stuck on an artwork or lack motivation or inspiration, I force myself to pick up where I left off and just start drawing, painting, or creating again. I usually end up spending several hours working afterwards.
I also try to find inspiration from my interests to become motivated to make art again. For instance, watching animated films, playing video games with beautiful art, and viewing other artists’ works usually get me out of my artist block.
What do you like incorporating most into your art?
Nature (ex: animals, people, plants).
What is something that you add to your art as like your signature?
Nothing, really—just my own signature.
Take us through your process for making art.
When I get an idea for a new artwork, first I decide what medium would be best to use to execute the image I have in mind. Then, I gather reference photos to help me develop a more vivid image of what the piece will look like. Lastly, I begin sketching and just starting putting it all together, making changes to my initial plan as necessary.
What do you struggle with the most when making art?
Perfectionism and self-criticism. When I create art, I tend to get caught up in the little details and the thought that my art isn’t good enough.
What role do artists have in society?
Artists create, inspire, spread messages, and add a little bit of razzle-dazzle into our everyday lives. :D
What characteristics do you think all artists share?
I think that all artists share the drive to create (of course)—to express their thoughts and ideas into something tangible. Also, I like to think that all artists have the ability to see potential in everything and view the world a little differently.
What’s your favorite place in Guam?
Oka Point.
How has your artwork evolved over time?
For years, I mainly stuck to the same subject matter—portraits of people—using the same media, such as charcoal and acrylic paints. Since graduating from high school, however, I have developed an interest in other art styles and media. As a result, I’ve been more open to trying out and embracing different styles and media.
Why did you choose to become an artist?
Art has always given me so much joy, and seeing works of art reminds me that there is beauty in everything, even the mundane.
Is your art geared towards a specific audience?
Not exactly. I’d like to think that my art can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of their age, race, gender, etc.
Do you have any tips for aspiring artists?
1) Never stop learning; never stop growing.
2) Be open to constructive criticism.
