Q: What kind of performance artist are you?

Actor/writer

Q: When did you first know that you wanted to be a full-time artist?

Since I was a kid I loved acting, it's where I put all my energy. I've always known I wanted it to be a major part of my life.

Q: How are you keeping yourself inspired to create during this unprecedented time?

In the beginning of the pandemic, I joined forces with some friends to do a weekly...then monthly zoom variety show. Having deadlines forced me to prioritize writing every day, so that I would have sketches to contribute. It's definitely gotten harder to stay inspired as the pandemic has dragged on, and with all that's been happening in the world. Lately I've found small things like walks in the park with a funny friend, moments of meditation, and exercise have helped to focus my mind and make space for creative thinking. I recently started taking voice lessons for the first time since I was a kid, and that's helped to keep my brain curious and open to different experiences.

Q: What is the biggest obstacle you’ve had to overcome as an artist and how did you overcome it?

The need for approval and to "do things right" was a big one, especially when it came to auditions. I remember deciding one day I wanted to care about what I do, but not about what people think. And from then on I've taken each audition as an opportunity to delve into a character, even if it's just a short while...to make it about experiencing the world in the moment. It's been incredibly freeing and my anxiety level around auditions has dropped immensely. Now it's something I look forward to. Journaling, breathing, and talking about feelings with a friend are helpful for me to stay in that mindset.

Q: What are you most proud of in your career thus far?

I'm most proud of writing/producing/co-directing my web series that just came out. It was a lot of work, but oh so fun! I learned so much from the amazing team of people I was surrounded by. It was inspiring on many levels. I remember walking to set the first day of filming and tearing up from all the gratitude in my heart. It's magical to see something that's been in your brain come to life, in such a beautifully collaborative way, and in the end to feel proud of the result.

Q: Is there anything you are working on now that can be shared and supported?

Make America Bake Again, a comedic web series: Determined Wisconsinite Mary Margaret Anderson wants to compete on America’s favorite cutthroat baking show, but to make it big she’ll need the help of her eccentric cousins to overcome self-doubt and release her inner rage. www.mabaseries.com/ @makeambake.