Today we’d like to introduce you to Tracilyn Jones-Poss.
Hi Tracilyn, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hi, I’m Tracilyn–Native Texan, born and raised in Temple Texas, I left my hometown shortly after my 18th birthday to pursue a career in the Entertainment Industry as an actress. I graduated college with a degree in Theatre, and I will always consider myself an actor first and foremost. I’ve enjoyed chapters in Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and New York City working in the arts. Researching characters, script analysis, and the thoughtful study of place and time are crucial for an actor, but I’ve learned to use these skills in all areas of my artistry and life. Empathy with the human condition has always fascinated me. In the journey of chasing the roles, what I realized I loved most was just that, the journey. The process. Surrendering to a world of creativity–a tightrope walk teetering on both embarrassment and triumph.
What became my best friend and most trusted confidant along my acting journey was painting. Creating a painting is no different than creating a character, I build layers of background, plot, confrontation, vulnerability, and resolve. And sometimes, no resolve…slightly unfinished on purpose. In 2019 I produced my own One-Person live theatre show in New York City–“Art in Motion” It chronicled my journey as an actor, painter, and runner (one of my once favorite hobbies). Because space in New York City is limited, I had to rent the theatre several months early to secure the venue. I didn’t have a single word written, not even an outline. But I trusted myself to have faith to finish the race. I went through about 11 drafts and within 7 months I had a play. My story. The versions were drastically different, but each layer built upon the last one. As I performed the final script I painted live on stage using my feet, hands, and body. It was a modern dance explosive movement piece referencing dreams, passion, and grief.
Shortly after my show ended I left New York and moved back to Texas in 2020. During this time of settling back into my home state, I met my husband Jeff who is a brilliant sculptor, fabricator, and builder of all things. Last year we reimagined and transformed an old quonset hut warehouse in East Austin into an art gallery showcasing fine art, custom clothing, upcycled creations, and vintage wear. Artful Living was born. Just like the writing of my play, we acquired the space without a clear plan. I’ve never been one to have a blueprint or a sketch. Inspiration can come in any form, and if I spend too much energy “planning” the idea can easily dissipate. I just start. One tile at a time we trusted our faith and creative process to make something special. We are still shaping it as we go and adding more layers in time. It’s a beautiful place to showcase my work and highlight other makers. Artful Living is a featured host this year in the upcoming Austin Studio Tour in November where we will be representing 12 multi-talented local artists and designers.
Other than being the Owner & Artistic Curator of Artful Living, I’m a C-IAYT Yoga Therapist and EFT (Tapping) Practitioner. Currently I’m an Original Hot Yoga teacher and faculty trainer for Pure Yoga Texas in Austin. I’ve been a student of yoga for almost 20 years, and it too has informed my artistry in many ways. Through yoga I’ve learned patience, gratitude, and most importantly self-acceptance.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not been smooth! I think for me the challenges during much of my journey as an artist was finding the right survival job. Something I could do for consistent money that I somewhat liked was essential. I didn’t have to love it, but hating it wasn’t an option. A lot of my time was spent surviving, so within that time I needed to see value. And when I found a good job, I couldn’t just drop it for any opportunity so that I could say “see I’m an artist!” it had to make sense. I spent years in and out of the hospitality industry and looking back a part of me misses very much. Although at the time I thought I was just “surviving” I was actually having a wonderful time with close friends developing more skills than I could ever realize.
And as far as the 9 month buildout of our Austin art gallery Artful Living…We lived in a small RV during the process with our dog. Not a great shower and tight quarters!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As an artist I do mainly large scale acrylic panting and mixed media. With my background in yoga, running, and movement, painting larger pieces makes me feel really free. I’m zoned in and connected kinetically to the piece for hours. I also design street-style hand painted clothing available at Artful Living. Wearable art is a way for me offer accessible artwork in my portfolio.
I’m most proud of the deliberate creation of my life that is authentic and suitable to exactly who I truly am.
What sets me apart from others? I don’t think anything sets me apart from others. As a Yogi I am always reminded of how similar we all are. I smile at the infinite delight that everyone is a mirror into my past, present, or future.
How do you define success?
Courage.
Courage to move forward.
Courage to turn left.
Courage to stop.
Courage to start over.
Pricing:
- $1,800.00 Neon Disco 48×24 Panels Acrylic on canvas
- $4,200.00 Wisdom’s Journey 48×48 Mixed Media
- $1,975.00 Present Dream or Unfinished Assembly 48×36 Mixed Media
- $1,300.00 each Duality 1&2 36×36 Acrylic on canvas
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.artinmotion.yoga/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artinmotion_bytracilyn/
- Other: https://www.artfullivingtx.com/
