Hi! I’m Jozette, and here’s my story in a nutshell! I grew up in a place where creativity wasn’t valued beyond mere “play.” Pursuing art was not considered a viable career choice. Even now, despite a decade of successful self-employment, I’m not sure my parents see it as a “real job” since I created it myself. Can anyone relate?
Despite this upbringing, I always felt the artist within me craving expression. The art room at school was my refuge, where I felt truly understood. Initially hesitant, I pursued psychology in college before switching my major to art. My BFA degree was costly, and I still pay for it, yet my vision of creating “functional” art faced skepticism. I wanted to craft art that people could use or wear, forming a personal connection with each piece.
Fashion found me unexpectedly, as my practice of hooping and fire dancing led me to design my own costumes. Through exploring slit weave techniques on natural fabrics, I caught people’s attention. After years of attempting to sell hand-blown glass items, and jewelry without success, my fashion journey officially began in 2013. Within a couple of years, I transitioned to full-time sewing and left my job behind. I’m completely self taught and still learning!
My journey has been filled with ups and downs. I started small, from my dining table to a small room, then a dream studio in my home, only to lose it all. I restarted, rebuilt, and persevered, even working from a friend’s dining table at one point. Now, I just started renting a studio outside my home to grow my business. It has been exhausting and challenging, but I keep pushing forward. Though progress may seem slow daily, looking back, I realize it’s all part of the journey. I’m immensely grateful for those who wear my art and bring it to life. Thank you! Remember, you can achieve your dreams too, one step at a time.🙌🩵🙌
@_luna_hawks #artvsartist #artiststory #slitweave
