We recently had the chance to connect with Jeff Wissman and have shared our conversation below.
Jeff, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I have been very happily retired for the past 2 years. That in itself brings me joy! I no longer have to live my life around a time clock! It’s a wonderful feeling to wake up every morning knowing that I can slowly sip my coffee, engage with our pet cats, watch a few minutes of tv and work for an unlimited amount of time on my latest commission or any other activity that presents itself during the day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am an artist who indulges himself with whimsy! My colorful illustrations put the characters I create into positions and/or situations and environments that make the impossible possible. What I find special about my work is that all of my creations are completely generated in my imagination. My pieces are all free hand drawings. I take pride in the fact that I do not rely on any computer programs to enhance my work. Another element that sets my work apart from other artists is that many pieces are done in layers. After a section is rendered, I cut it out and adhere it to foam core board that has been cut to fit the image. These images are then glued to a background and placed in a shadow box frame. This gives the artwork a 3-D effect.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As I child I believed that everyone was guaranteed 100 years of life on this earth. As I matured, I realized this was not true. I witnessed sickness and death with many of my beloved friends and family members. Some died in their teens, some died in their 20’s, some in their 50’s. Nobody made it to 100! What this has taught me is that I have to enjoy every minute of life I have. Spend it with people I love, places I love to be, engage in what I love to do. Not everyone has the same thoughts and beliefs that I do. I have to willingly accept that fact and continue to live happily and peacefully with the time I have left.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
Stop overthinking! You’re good enough!
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that social engagements really matter to me. Both my family and friends know how crucial it is for me to be around them. I can only remain in solitude for a very short amount of time. Something as simple as meeting up for a cup of coffee fills me with joy. Being introduced to new people is also very exciting. I love finding out what makes people “tick”. Many times I find myself asking what others would say are strange or irrelevant questions. I’m not trying to be nosy or superficial. I REALLY WANT TO KNOW!
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
He was true to himself, his family, his friends and that his artwork always contained 100% of his heart and soul.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Jeff.wissman
- Linkedin: Jeff Wissman
- Facebook: Jeff Wissman
