Pronouns: They/Them
Location: New Mexico/New York
Website: jammingwithjules.com 
TikTok: julessingsforlittles 

Pursuing their dream, Jules attended the Berklee College of Music, where they honed their diverse creative skills. After graduating, Jules delved into genres such as Country, Pop, and Indie Rock as a solo artist and with their band Boketto the Wolf. They have captivated audiences with local performances, international tours, and teaching at Berklee, sharing their expertise with the next generation.

In addition to their music career, Jules collaborates with Ms. Rachel on the YouTube channel "Ms. Rachel - Toddler Learning Videos," where they combine their musical talents with educational content for children.

Truly embodying the spirit of a "queer of all trades," Jules balances numerous personal projects and collaborations. We had the opportunity to conduct a brief interview with Jules, gaining insight into their life as a creator. Join us as we explore what being a creator means to them!

Ice Breaker: If your creative process was a reality TV show, what would it be called and why?  

"Sleepless" contestants must stay awake until a task/art piece is completed. After completion, they will be allowed to sleep - they may wake up the next day confused about what had even occurred the night before. Thank goodness for a TV and film crew to capture the mayhem.

This would be my reality show because I find that most thoughts come to me in my sleep - or as I am about to fall asleep or as I am just waking up... in a dream state. One of my favorite, most recent incoherent middle-of-the-night thoughts was this (found in my notes app the next day unedited, with typos):

 "You brought me a dried up lime, Inisstsd there was still life left in it. A like from from the compost pink shadows. The green is orange..." 

I am still trying to understand why I wrote this or what it meant. Maybe it's genius? Maybe it's an invitation to dig deeper... Either way, this is my creative process, an example of what comes out of my brain that I don't even remember.  

Inspiration: What's the most unusual source of inspiration you've ever had for a project or piece of work?

I recorded the heart beat of my unborn nephew recently (he is born now and healthy) and I am really excited to use his heartbeat from the sonogram as a beat in a future recording/song. This probably isn't the strangest source of inspiration, but it is the most recent. 

Challenges: How do you combat the dreaded 'creative block' and keep the ideas flowing? 

Re-education- taking courses, classes, and intensives on the subjects I love to get new perspectives. I recently took a songwriting intensive with Adrianne Lenker (of big thief) and it helped me break some walls I had with my songwriting. Even though a lot of what was being taught were practices I use and things I already know- hearing them from another brain reignited me, gave me new perspective and made me feel confident in my craft.

Words of Wisdom: What’s one piece of advice you’d give your younger self at the start of your creative journey?

Trust the path. Create for yourself first. Bring all of you to your art, and don't be afraid to get messy and experiment. TRUST!

Fuck, Marry, Fear = Beyonce, Jodie Foster, Frida Kahlo

Fuck: Frida Kahlo, Marry: Beyonce, Fear: Jodie Foster

Work-life balance tip of the week ✏️

Define clear boundaries between your work hours and personal time, especially if you work from home or have flexible hours. It's important to communicate these boundaries to clients, colleagues, and even friends and family. Use tools and rituals to signify the shift from work to personal time, such as turning off your work computer or having a specific end-of-day routine.

Article of the week

Navigating the Business World as a Queer Creative: Strategies for Success

Entering the creative business world as a queer individual can seem daunting. However, many have trodden this path before, paving the way for future generations. The key to success lies in strategic navigation, leveraging your unique perspectives, and finding your niche.

Firstly, understand your audience. Queer art resonates not just within the LGBTQ+ community but with anyone appreciating authenticity and fresh perspectives. Identify who your work speaks to and tailor your marketing strategies to engage this audience directly.

Networking is another crucial step. Seek out LGBTQ+ business associations, art collectives, and online communities. These networks can provide invaluable support, advice, and opportunities for collaboration.

Lastly, protect your work and your rights. Familiarize yourself with copyright laws and consider consulting with legal professionals specializing in LGBTQ+ issues.

Empowering quote of the week 💪🏾

Resource of the week

Description: The Pride Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for LGBTQ+ students in the Northwestern United States, supporting those pursuing post-secondary education, including arts and creative disciplines. These scholarships are designed to encourage and support LGBTQ+ students in achieving their educational and career aspirations.

Opportunities for: LGBTQ+ students pursuing post-secondary education in the arts and other fields.

How to Apply: Application details, deadlines, and eligibility criteria are available on the Pride Foundation's website, with applications typically opening in the fall for the following academic year.

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