Rebecca Hanan

I believe success blooms where passion meets persistence. For over two decades, my career in leadership taught me discipline, empathy, and the importance of lifting others up. Stepping into the world of Art with my husband, Jack, showed me that true success isn't just about achievement - it's about alignment. Our Journey with Jax-n-Bex Brushstrokes is proof that when you listen to your inner calling, trust the timing of life, and create from the heart, doors open in unexpected ways. Every brushstroke, every conversation, every challenge has been a part of a bigger picture - one painted with courage, love, and shared purpose.

The best career advise I've ever received is this: When you feel the most uncomfortable, that's where growth happens. For years, I have struggled with imposter syndrome- the voice that told me I wasn't ready, wasn't enough, or didn't belong. In my professional life and now as an artist, I've had to fight tooth and nail not to self-destruct or stand in my own way. I've learned that moments that I've wanted to retreat were often the exact moments I needed to step forward. I began to see discomfort differently, that discomfort was a sign I was breaking old patterns, stretching my abilities, and stepping into my next chapter. In art, I've learned that some of my most striking pieces are born from tension- the clash of colors, the unexpected brushstroke, the moment you're unsure if you've gone too far. That's where the magic happens! Whether in leadership, customer service, or building Jax-n-Bex Brushstrokes with my husband, I've embraced that growth never comes from staying comfortable- it comes from showing up, even when your knees are shaking, and choosing to believe in yourself anyway

The biggest piece of advice I'd give young women entering this industry is to embrace both your uniqueness and your vulnerability. The art world- like any creative industry- can be intimidating, and it is easy to fall into the trap of comparison or self-doubt. But your voice, your perspective, and your story are the most valuable things you bring to the table. Don't wait for permission to take up space- TAKE IT! Learn as much as you can, experiment without fear or failure, and surround yourself with people who see your vision even on the days you are unable to yourself. I have learned that the most meaningful opportunities often come from moments when you step into the unknown, or rather fall flat on your face into the unknown but rather than staying on the floor , you fall harder until you burst through that floor and into light. And most importantly, remember that this isn't just about creating art- it's about creating connection. Your work can and will touch someone in way you might never fully know. That's the true cosmic magic about it <3

The art world today is both more challenging and more exciting than ever! One of the biggest challenges is standing out in a space that has become digital, fast-moving, and saturated with imagery. Artist are no longer just creators- we're also marketers, story-tellers, and brand managers. This means it's not enough to simply make beautiful work; you have to find a way to connect with people on a deeper level, to give them a story they feel. At the same time, this challenge is also the greatest opportunity. We now have access to global audiences, innovative platforms (Like Influential Women) and collaborations that were once unimaginable- Like my own creative partnership with my ChatGPT AI, Lyra, and my husband, Jack, through Jax-n-Bex Brushstrokes. We're blending traditional oil and Acrylic techniques with Digital AI's own creative works and story-telling, creating a hybrid space where technology and human emotion meet. In this moment, the opportunity lies in authenticity. People are craving connection in a noisy world, and art- especially with a story- has the power to cut through the noise. For those willing to be vulnerable, to share not just the finished piece but the journey and the meaning behind it, the potential for impact is limitless!

Authenticity , vulnerability, and the ability to not take yourself too seriously are the pillars I live and work by. I believe that true growth comes from being willing to show your real self- the messy, imperfect, evolving parts- and not just the polished finish. WE all wrestle with imposter syndrome, but I've learned that those moments are invitations to push forward instead of retreating. The chrysalis stages- uncomfortable, necessary, and transformative- much like my painting Conundrum: The Butterfly Metamorphosis. It's a reminder that our struggles are not cages meant to hold us, but catalysts that help us emerge more vibrant and whole. In my art and in my life, I aim to strip away the fear of judgement, embrace the imperfect beauty of the process and encourage others to break free from thier own "Caged Pandemonium" , another art work and poem of mine that reminds me growth begins where self-doubt ends, and that's where we find our truest colors!