Cannabis and the Creative Process
Few individuals embody creativity, femininity, and cannabis culture as authentically as Jordan Payne. From her nomadic upbringing to her eclectic exploration of photography, printmaking, and dance, Payne's journey is a testament to the dynamism of artistic expression. She’s a firm believer in cannabis's capacity to ignite her creative spark, and frequently uses the plant to get into the “zone.”
A Nomadic Lifestyle: Nurturing Open-Mindedness
Jordan Payne's formative years were characterized by constant movement, with her family relocating often across different regions of the United States. This nomadic lifestyle instilled in her a profound sense of adaptability. Reflecting on her upbringing, Payne says, "Moving around a lot as a kid taught me to be super open-minded. It forced me to adapt to new environments and perspectives, fostering a deep sense of curiosity and resilience within me."
Payne now resides between New York and Hawaii. The juxtaposition of urban vibrancy and natural serenity in Payne's dual residences of Manhattan and Maui encapsulates the essence of her creative ethos. Each environment, with its distinct energy and ambiance, serves as a wellspring of inspiration for her artistic practice. It's within this dynamic interplay of bustling city streets and tranquil island landscapes that Payne finds a harmonious setting to explore her creativity, often drawing inspiration from the natural world and the calming influence of cannabis.
From Modeling to Photography
Her foray into the world of photography began in Hawaii at the age of 18, where she initially embarked on a modeling career as a means to pay bills. However, it wasn't until her early twenties that Payne found herself drawn to the other side of the camera, exploring the realms of photography and visual storytelling. She recalls a pivotal moment that sparked her creative awakening: a serendipitous encounter with photographer Davis Ayer. Payne describes how Ayer's work served as a catalyst for her artistic awakening. "His photographs seemed to capture the essence of my dreams," she reminisces. "It was as if he had unlocked a door to a realm where imagination and reality seamlessly intertwined."
Creativity Without Borders
Photography serves as Jordan’s primary medium of expression, but her creative endeavors extend far beyond the confines of the camera lens. Printmaking offers a tactile and experimental outlet, while dance allows her to embody emotions and narratives through movement. Each medium provides a unique canvas for Payne to explore the depths of her creativity and imagination.
Cannabis and Creativity: A Harmonious Relationship
Central to Payne's creative process is her relationship with cannabis—a plant celebrated for its ability to enhance sensory experiences and foster introspection. "Cannabis has become an integral part of my creative journey," she explains. "It allows me to quiet the noise of the outside world and immerse myself fully in the present moment." Embracing cannabis as an integral part of her creative process, Payne finds solace and inspiration in moments of heightened presence and connection. Rather than adhering to rigid routines, Payne's use of cannabis aligns with the ebb and flow of creative waves, facilitating a deeper immersion in the artistic process.
Navigating Creative Blocks
Creative blocks are an inevitable part of the artistic journey, yet Payne approaches them with a sense of acceptance and receptivity. Viewing creative blocks not as impediments but as natural pauses in the creative rhythm, Payne advocates for leaning into these moments of stagnation, allowing for introspection and renewal. By relinquishing the pressure to constantly produce, artists can cultivate a more harmonious relationship with their creative instincts, allowing inspiration to flow organically.
In her own practice, Payne has found a unique way to overcome these blocks by incorporating cannabis into her creative process. She sees it as a tool to quiet the noise of self-doubt and inhibition, allowing her mind to wander freely and explore new avenues of thought. Through cannabis, Payne taps into a deeper level of creativity, breaking through barriers that once seemed like obstacles. It's not about escaping reality, but rather about enhancing perception and unlocking the boundless potential of her imagination.
Make Bad Art, Sometimes
As Payne continues to evolve as an artist, she remains committed to authenticity and growth. "Art is a continual journey of self-exploration," she ponders. "It's about embracing ambiguity, stretching boundaries, and reimagining what can be achieved."
In a world where conformity often eclipses individuality, Payne's words serve as a reminder of the importance of staying true to oneself. Her willingness to explore new mediums and transcend boundaries is inspiring, reminding us that creativity thrives in the spaces between certainty and doubt, familiarity and the unknown. "Leave room for making really bad art sometimes, in the name of exploring a new expression," she concludes.
