J Travis is a self-taught visual artist who works primarily with abstract acrylic paints and mixed media. She proudly claims her roots- Canton-born and Akron-raised.

What inspired you to create?

My artistic journey began with my mother, who taught me the joy of drawing. Her unwavering support for my imaginative endeavors, like coloring purple goldfish swimming in the sky, was monumental. For a woman who worked more than two jobs to make ends meet, spending that time with me was priceless.

I’m also deeply inspired by Lisa Frank. Her vibrant, whimsical universe captivated my heart; I longed to live in a place filled with brilliant colors and joyful creatures. The opposite of my reality of an unfair world, I learned at an early age that life could be daunting, and often isolating. Through my own artwork, I aspire to evoke the same sense of wonder and joy that Lisa Frank’s creations sparked within me.

Why do you create?

Creating is my sanctuary. It offers me an empowering sense of control in a world that often tries to dictate everything. Through my art, I set my own beauty standards and amplify the magic of imagination. My work is a reflection of my innermost self, peeling back the layers of my identity as a wife, daughter, and allowing the uniqueness of me shine through.

I create because it is one of the most powerful tools I have to advocate, encourage, and inspire others. I’m not always good with words and I hate public speaking, my arms are too short for instruments and my knees are too weak to perform, and even though I love to sign, I’m extremely tone-deaf. BUT! I have an endless imagination, a dislike for injustice and a fierce passion for uplifting and celebrating women, and through my art, I channel all of that into something truly magical. This allows me to be the change I want to see.

My ArtsForward project is called Assuage_HER. The word “assuage” means to bring relief to an unpleasant feeling or situation. My focus is on assuaging women in Summit County by providing creative outlets that help improve their mental health and wellness, with a special emphasis on Black women and women of color.

I target women because studies show we experience stress at three times the rate of men, a statistic that is even higher for women of color. This stress can contribute to mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression. For women of color, these diagnoses often go unchecked and untreated due to systemic discrimination, racism, and the stigma surrounding the pursuit of mental health services.

Assuage_HER, has empowered me to destigmatize mental health and encourage self-care. I have been pitching this creative program for the past three years. Although Summit County is resource-rich, we lack innovative approaches to coping with stress. It’s crucial to recognize that managing stress and anxiety is not a one-size-fits-all solution. As I learn in my own journey with anxiety and clinical depression.

Photos by The Green Photograph

How do you want to impact the community?

My goal is to educate women about the importance of self- care and self-love in our busy lives. Having experienced the challenges of caring for others while neglecting my own needs, I understand the barriers and conflicts that arise when trying to prioritize yourself. I also empathize with the stigma associated with seeking mental health services.

My second goal was to introduce my guests to various creative skills they can practice easily at home. Third, I aim to give back to my community’s encounter through partnerships with local women-owned and minority-owned businesses. Lastly, and Most importantly, I want to provide my guests with the tools they can use to prepare for seeking mental health services, recognize signs of mental health crisis, and provide materials that promote daily self-care and self-love routines.

Why does art matter?

Art is embedded in every aspect of our lives-from our cars, homes, and clothing to our jewelry. It is essential to make all these things possible.

Art serves as a powerful form of expression, allowing individuals and communities to communicate feelings, thoughts, and ideas that might be difficult to articulate in words. Engaging with or experiencing art has enhanced the mental well-being of my participants, offering therapeutic benefits, stimulating creativity, and reducing stress. Art enriches our lives, provides space for reflection and connection, and plays a vital role in the cultural and emotional fabric of society.

Art isn’t just about making something look nice; it’s about making you feel. Choose art based on the emotions it evokes, not on how it matches your furniture.