This interview was curated by START Shows

Though many art teachers urged Jaz to pursue an art career, she followed her other passion instead: fashion. For Jaz, fashion is art come to life. She began in the 90s on the forefront of Urban Wear, with her first job designing on The Notorious B.I.G.’s Brooklyn Mint line. She went on to design for nearly every American Hip-Hop artist’s line from Beyonce to Jay-Z. However, you don’t choose to be an artist; it’s something you inherently are. Art was always tugging at her. While freelancing in fashion, she
spent several years traveling the Anime and Comic convention circuit with her art and even dabbled in graphic novels.

During the Covid lockdown in 2020, art became a lifeline for her, as it did for many. This period deepened her appreciation for art’s healing power. Since then, she has participated in several exhibitions and recently did her first art fair: Superfine NYC. Her work is also featured in the July’24 issue of Artistonish magazine.

What inspired you to pursue your dream, and how did it all begin?

I grew up in the 80s. The fashion, art and music of that time lit an unquenchable fire in me. I mean, Mtv, the art scene in NYC…come on, it was so exciting then. I wanted to be a rock star, but being on stage scared the crap out of me. Thankfully, at 14 while shopping with my friend, her mom said we could pick out 1 magazine. We picked Vogue because it was the biggest(the September issue). I was hooked. I still have that issue.

Can you share a defining moment in your journey that shaped your perspective and fueled your passion?

I’m old..lol..there have been MANY. One of the more recent moments was losing my Mom to a 7yr battle with cancer. My mom was and probably still is my biggest cheerleader. She always encouraged me to follow my dreams and did whatever she could to keep me going when it got hard, from mailing me cards with words of encouragement (one of them still sits on my desk where I work) to taking me on short mother-daughter trips to reset my brain and get re-inspired. I can’t say losing her fueled my passion. I know some people can take grief and it empowers them. I can’t do that, but looking back and seeing how little by little I’m embracing the reluctant artist in me, I think without knowing it, I have been doing that in honor of my mom.

How do you handle setbacks and keep pushing forward in the pursuit of your dreams?

I find the best way to handle setbacks is to allow yourself to fall apart. When we try to keep it all together, and play it cool, the energy only builds. So throw a tantrum, preferably in the privacy of your own home and not on the subway. Cry on a friend's shoulder. Working out always helps me. Get it all out, then have a good meal or watch a good movie. Do something comforting and nurturing; then get back in the ring.

How do you maintain a balance between pursuing your dreams and handling everyday responsibilities?

I don't..lol...It's a juggling act, and I drop balls all the time. As a recovering perfectionist, now I take a deep breath and decide if I really need to pick that ball up. We're taught 'we have to do it ALL.', but we really don't. It's ok to drop a ball now and then.

How do you overcome self-doubt and stay confident in your abilities?

I collect compliments. Now, with social media, it's even easier. I have an album on my phone with screenshots of nice things people have said to me. Remembering to read them when I'm in a dark hole is the trick..lol.

Can you share a memorable success story or achievement that resulted from your determination?

It was the 90s, Hip-Hop was on fire. When FUBU Ladies hit the shops I was like 'Whoever is designing this stuff is in my head and I have to work with them.' I had zero connections to FUBU and everyone told me, 'They ain't gonna hire a white girl.' I knew the odds were against me but I HAD to try. I sent in my resume and sketches and a week or two later I got a call from Kianga ‘Kiki’ Milele, the head designer there. We clicked instantly. I freelanced there for a couple of years. I told her, 'If you ever want to do your own thing, call me.' She did call me. We had our own line for about 5yrs and still consult together on other lines, to this day. She is my business partner and my soul sister from another life. Meeting Kiki changed my whole life.

What dream are you living right now?

I will be re-launching my shop that will combine art and fashion, my two favorite things (hopefully by the time this article comes out). I want to bring my 20yrs+ experience as an NYC Fashion Designer and Artist into a line I hope will make you feel like the bad ass that you are. My art and this collection are for those who are IN it; doing the work, hugging the dragons, laughing, crying and loving through the chaos.
The best way to hear about this project and to keep up with everything I'm doing is to join my mailing list:
https://shop.angeltripstudio.com/news-letter-sign-up
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What advice would you give to someone with a dream?

Try to do something that nurtures your dream every day. Even if it’s small. If you’re an artist; sketch, apply to an open call, or simply look at art.
Listen to advice, but don’t take it as the only answer.
Be driven, but don’t forget to take a step back and enjoy where you are, even when you’re struggling. We can be in such a rush to realize our perfect visions, that we miss the life that’s happening all around us.
Do NOT compare yourself to anyone else. Dreamers have their own unique paths. The road will twist and turn, and sometimes you will feel like you’re going backwards, but you’re not. Your path is not a straight line. Trust it and trust yourself.

Website: http://www.angeltripstudio.com

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/angeltripstudio2.0/

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