Jordyn Garca shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Jordyn, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
While I’m working as a Gallery Assistant in Fort Worth, the first 90 minutes of my day are normally relaxing and getting ready before I start my commute and begin my work day. I start with breakfast for me and my cat Phantom, cleaning my space after I trash my room trying to find something to wear, and enjoying myself before the busyness begins.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello Everyone!
My name is Jordyn Garca, and I am a mixed media/photographer based in Dallas, Texas. I am currently working as a Gallery Assistant in Fort Worth, and I love my job. Aside from working with artists and clients at my gallery, Fort Works Art, I enjoy studio work and digital imaging, hands-on mixed media, pottery, attending estate sales and antique malls, and spending time with my family.
What sets my work apart is the intention behind the lens. While pursuing my BFA at the University of Texas at Arlington, one class completely changed my creative trajectory. Historical Photographic Processes transformed my understanding of digital photography and mixed media, making it a more immersive and tactile medium. Rather than simply printing works, I learned how to add not only physical layers, but also metaphorical ones.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
That honor has to go to my older sister. She’s been the absolute best person to grow up with, and more often than not, she knows me better than I know myself. She’s seen my ups and downs, my bad habits, and my strengths even before I recognized them. Whenever I’m dealing with self-doubt in my work or in myself, she’s the first to call me out and tell me exactly what I need to hear to reset my mindset, grounding me back to reality more times than I can count. I often find myself believing we were supposed to be twins.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
As cliché as it sounds, I’d make sure she knew it was okay to make mistakes. I still struggle with perfectionism now, but when I was younger, it was almost debilitating. I always pushed myself to be the best athlete, student, daughter, and sister, and anytime I felt like I didn’t measure up to those unrealistic standards, I doubled down and tried even harder, and that often ended without any real payoff. I’d tell her that effort doesn’t always equal worth, and that messing up isn’t a failure; it’s part of figuring out who you are. I’ve learned to be more okay with mistakes and to actually learn from them, giving myself more grace than I ever would’ve given her.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
The biggest lie in this industry is the idea of the ‘starving artist.’ It’s everywhere, like it’s supposed to be some badge of authenticity, but I find it sometimes a little unrealistic. Sure, everyone struggles at some point, but who doesn’t? But treating financial struggle as being inevitable for artists keeps people from seeing real opportunities. Artists are some of the most creative people, not just in making art, but in finding ways to make a living from it. Money can come from almost any form of art; you just have to find your niche and get creative with it.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes, I believe I genuinely could, even knowing it would be difficult. Younger Jordyn would have probably said no, but as I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned to be proud of the effort I’ve given so far. Praise and recognition are nice, of course, but they’re not the point. If you’re striving for praise, at what point are you satisfied? The real value comes from showing up, putting in the work, and knowing I gave everything my best, whether anyone notices or not.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: jordynrgarca
- Facebook: Jordyn Garca
