We had the good fortune of connecting with Jiva and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Jiva, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
Honestly, I’m inspired by everyone around me. I believe in the spiritual law of reflection- every single person and situation in your life is a mirror reflecting an aspect of yourself. From the mundane to the extraordinary things in my life, I learned to understand why it’s in my receptive reality. I love watching people who are doing the things I’d like to do one day, listening to their stories, methods and observing the passion in their actions. Even the people who irritate us have something to teach us, and I learn about my own insecurities or trauma, choosing to heal and ascend from it. Most importantly, my younger self inspires me. Undoing all the subconscious conditioning, healing from the hardships I faced, and alchemizing my experiences to be the teacher I wish I had. Someday I’d love to be the reason someone else was inspired, to have the courage to change, transform, heal, and rise above expectations.
Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
My creations as Jiva are a dual expressions of darkness and light. Most of my art has dark mysterious undertones because of my desire to express the depth of which I pull emotion from. My poetry is a prime example of this, I explore topics like death, existentialism, sadness, sexuality, and religion. But that’s not to say I haven’t found purpose in pain, and as I’ve grown so has my perspective, and I always find a way to thank God for my experiences. I love to alchemize my pain into lessons, and find beauty in the chaos. As a creative, we don’t always work with due dates or schedules. Sometimes your best work is in the midst of a breakdown as you question your sanity. I’ve learned to allow creation and inspiration to flow through me like a life force, never trying to control it, but letting it happen to you. I’m proud of everything I’ve created and accomplished, and I still have so much to share with the world, all in divine timing. Jiva is all about embracing your authenticity, whether it goes by the rules of society or not. Sometimes it’s difficult to find balance when you’re trying to make your art your business. If you force yourself to create, it can feel inauthentic. Business is about monetizing your product/service and when you try and track your progress it can feel like you’re not achieving much. If we compare ourselves to other successful creatives we can feel like we’re not amounting or making an impact. There’s been times where I almost gave up on myself because I didn’t see the numbers I wanted. But then I realized the superficiality in that way of thinking. I discovered success is not how much money you make, or how popular you can get- it’s doing what you love without rules or limitations. If your audience is 10 people, or 10,000 people- don’t doubt the value of your work. God puts ideas, thoughts, and messages in your heart because the way you create is unique, and the right people will come across you when it’s their time. Trust is a big part of running a business or a blog, along with having an abundance mindset. If there’s one thing people can take from Jiva, it’s to embrace your soul, express yourself, and have faith in your process.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love an intimate setting, and that for me is place we can chat or just soak in the beauty of the city. My favorite places to go are restaurants, from hole-in-walls to a fine dining setting, I love to share a meal and take care of my people (also be taken care of). But we might go exploring spots of solitude as well, away from the hustle and bustle. That can be the top of a parking garage with a view of the skyline, or a park near the lake where we can absorb some nature and appreciate the tranquility.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m eternally grateful for the people, books, and experiences that are the building blocks to my success. My family is a huge pillar of love and support for me, and I wouldn’t be who I am without them. I’d especially love to thank my soulmate and lover, Felipe. With you, I have grown to be a better version of myself and I thank you for loving me, even when it’s hard to love me, making the good times that much sweeter. My late Father, Rich Killip, I will forever cherish your light. Thank you for instilling confidence in me when I didn’t understand who I was yet, I know you’re proud of me. Lastly, Nipsey Hussle Tha Great, my greatest inspiration. Rest in Power.
Website: https://snipfeed.co/jivasopulence
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officiallyjiva/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/_jivaofficial
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTyL5QQRy2uJFh5CnQbm36g
Other: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1ixGlRnMJRq4vOWpEzO2PL?si=c528797aed84420d&nd=1
Image Credits
Felipe Vera, Eli Flores