EP10: On Creativity with Jessie Kanelos Weiner

Creativity isn’t reserved for artists—it’s how we solve problems, express ourselves, and reimagine what’s possible. But what happens when self-doubt creeps in or inspiration feels out of reach?

Jane Bertch sits down with illustrator and author Jessie Kanelos Weiner to talk about the creative process, embracing imperfection, and the unexpected paths that shape our work. Jessie shares her journey from Chicago to Paris, where she arrived as an au pair with a sketchbook and a dream but no clear roadmap. Over time, she found her voice through watercolor, eventually working with brands like Vogue and Cartier while developing a unique artistic identity.

Jessie and Jane explore the role of creativity in building confidence, why getting “messy” is often the key to progress, and how cycles of inspiration come and go. Jessie also introduces her new book, Thinking in Watercolor, a guide to unlocking creativity through daily artistic practice. Whether you’re an artist or just looking to bring more creative energy into your life, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired to start where you are.

Quotes

• "I think it's just kind of accepting that some days you just don't want to do what you need to do and you want to work on something else. If you feel like lightning has struck and you need to seize the day, then it’s always important to make a little bit of time for those really pressing ideas." (10:47 | Jessie Kanelos Weiner)
• "Start where you are. You are your own best primary reference or resource." (17:49 | Jessie Kanelos Weiner)
• "You don’t need to know everything perfectly. It’s just a matter of practicing." (23:52 | Jessie Kanelos Weiner)
• "Sometimes you just have to live your life and piece it together afterwards. I'm thankful for those moments and those people who saw something in me that I didn't see in myself." (27:02 | Jessie Kanelos Weiner)

Links

Connect with Jessie Kanelos Weiner:

Jessie's substack ; https://jessiekanelosweiner.substack.com

Jessie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessiekanelosweiner/?hl=en

Connect with Jane Bertch:

Website: www.janebertch.com

Instagram @janebertch

Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm