Our guest speaker this week was artist Jenny West. From a young age, Jenny always knew she wanted to pursue a career in the arts. She just wasn’t always sure what kind of artist she would be. She was caught in between pursuing a career in film/theater or a career in the visual arts. Though she ultimately chose the latter career, she managed to incorporate her skills as an actress into it. When learning to paint different styles, she said she would use her acting skills to create female alter egos for famous male artists. I found it extremely interesting that while she realized the acting industry was not her cup of tea, she didn’t fully part ways with that side of her and found ways to use that training in her career. I also liked that she created an entirely new  technique of painting using a combination of different techniques and her knowledge of neuroscience. Through this she demonstrated how combining one’s different interests can create something extraordinary. This is also prevalent in her career itself as she is an artist primarily but also does bookkeeping for several businesses. She is able to pursue her dream while also making sure to be financially secure with a second job that she likes. Jenny West showed that while art isn’t always an easy path- it is possible, and it doesn’t mean that you have to give up other interests.