In lieu of our traditional Quit Your Day Job interview, today we have a special video installment! Jessica Doyle is a Canadian writer, artist and influential Etsy seller. Her blog, Art & Musings, is deeply honest, touching, inspiring and contains beautiful illustrations and images. She grapples with serious issues of addiction and how it affects her life and work.
Elastic Lab recently released a video interview of Jessica, called “Working the 9 to 5 Job Was Killing Me,” for their Culture of Content Creation Series. Here it is!
Working the 9 to 5 job was killing me from Elastic Lab.
We love the Culture of Content Creation Series’ mission:
“In today’s world of social media, digital voices rant and rave, ruminate on their experiences, give life to the world’s causes, bring fame to the worthy, bring shame to the unworthy, denounce dishonesty and evil, and preach a million variations on truth. But while the voices are loud, the social media movement is, for the most part, a faceless movement. Conversations, discussions, relationships, business partnerships, and friendships exist where face-to-face encounters do not. Such is the nature of the Internet, and why this project, The Culture of Content Creation, was launched.
“Since the early part of 2008, Elastic Lab has commissioned video interviews with digital content creators of all kinds — bloggers, vloggers, reviewers, journalists, filmmakers, educators, artists, technologists, consultants, and many others who defy labels.”
Have a peek at their entire series here.
Want more? Watch Etsy videos at Etsy.tv or subscribe to our YouTube Channel.
156 comments
Sign in to add your ownAyca says:
Great article , thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
lovelygifts says:
Beautiful work! Great article.
2 years ago
DeNovoStyle says:
Beautiful work! Thank you for the article.
2 years ago
juliebcreative says:
amazing illustrations
2 years ago
Waterrose says:
As always, lovely feature on a wonderful artist...
2 years ago
3squares says:
I've been a fan of Jessica's for a long time. Wonderful learning more of her inspirational story. Best wishes for continued success!
2 years ago
HaleyByHand says:
Inspirational, thank you.
2 years ago
kissadesign says:
Thank you for sharing your story and your lovely work with us! I esp. love that Magnolias print - they're in bloom right now! (I don't miss my last "9 to 5" at all...)
2 years ago
SIKIU says:
It is nice to see an artist, a human being leaving addictions for good. Your video gives inspiration and hope to who are struggling. I would like to hear more about your art process and how did you quit your day job. Art has been my medicine for stress and I'm not surprise how good can do to people. Good job Jessica!
2 years ago
lynncyrart says:
This is fantastic! Congrats, and thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
LiquidImagination says:
It gives us pause to see others once enmeshed in the cultural conditioning that is forced by the 9-5 ethic, who have then remastered their environments in such a way as to present a new reality for themselves. There is an example to be followed here, and you have my thanks for the renewal of hope. I vow to do my very best to do the same, for I find myself to be delving into Etsy as a way of releasing myself from the same droll atmosphere in search of transitioning into the daily artist that I have always yearned to become.
2 years ago
hypericumfragile says:
Excellent, inspiring and truly artistic collection. Wow.
2 years ago
pamwares says:
Love her art and her blog! Enjoy!
2 years ago
humblebea says:
Thank you for sharing your story and video! I love your art! (-:
2 years ago
polkadotmagpie says:
Great video...wonderful drawings. Drawing keeps me sane!
2 years ago
adrienneaudrey says:
great video, thank you for sharing
2 years ago
lalucita says:
Awesome and inspiring. Congratulations!
2 years ago
LeftoverFishStikks says:
Wonderful article and beautiful work!
2 years ago
ClementinesJewelry says:
Very inspiring!
2 years ago
Mattie714 says:
What a beautiful story and amazing artwork! Thank you for sharing!
2 years ago
AZCreativeStudio says:
I admire the sincerity and talent Jessica has! She is an inspiration for all of us!
2 years ago
helisengezer says:
Lovely feature of an amazing artist! I am a fan :)
2 years ago
LittleWrenPottery says:
Great change nice to see a video, I've always enjoyed the seller studio focused interviews I always love seeing other peoples workspaces even if they're really different from mine!
2 years ago
HighRidgeRockNbeads says:
What a wonderfully honest video. Thank you for sharing and your artwork is amazing!
2 years ago
YouAreYou says:
Always one of my favorite articles! A wonderful artist!
2 years ago
Emmamaha says:
I've happened on Jessica's blog and was very much touched by her honesty and her true raw emotions. Her art is sinuous and very art nouveau-ish. It's interesting to read how the mind of an artist works and alternate that with their work.
2 years ago
Artistico says:
Lovely feature of an amazing artist!
2 years ago
EJPcreations says:
Such an amazing artist!
2 years ago
AnnetteDonnelly says:
Nice story -- I think many in the Etsy community can relate to the good feelings that come from creating and doing something we love. Beautiful art work, Jessica.
2 years ago
JanuaryJaniesJewelry says:
Love your drawings
2 years ago
DearOhDeer says:
These articles are always hugely inspiring, working the 9-5 is totally killing me!
2 years ago
yaelfran says:
WONDERFUL video Jessica!!!! You're just amazing!!!! Congrats!!!!!!!!!
2 years ago
JessicaDoyle says:
Thank you daniellexo and everyone for the kind words and comments about my artwork and the video. I'm truly humbled right now. I am 4.5 years sober off of hard drugs and am looking forward to another 4.5 years of the same. @SIKIU if you travel into the archives of my blog which are located in my sidebar I documented the struggles I faced when I quit my last full-time job in July 2005. I began blogging shortly after in March 2006 in search of another more holistic way to live.
2 years ago
paramountvintage says:
great article!!!
2 years ago
TessaKim says:
Great work, thank you for sharing :)
2 years ago
studio2355 says:
Continue to be encouraged, Beautiful artwork.
2 years ago
OsoVictoria says:
Thank you for sharing, very nice video footage! I love watercolors, beautiful work!
2 years ago
FlamingoFeathers says:
really encouraging and inspiring
2 years ago
TanyaMac says:
I've been an admirer of Jessica's work for a while now - I only admire her more after viewing that inspiring interview. Your artwork is unbelievably beautiful, I especially like the coral fingers piece... happy for you! ;D
2 years ago
GollyBard says:
Lovely work! Lovely person! Thank you for so bravely sharing your life and experiences!
2 years ago
Panterina says:
Thanks Jessica for sharing your experience. It is moving
2 years ago
LizzyBdesigns says:
Very Inspiring story Jessica, thanks so much for sharing!! I am a full time addictions counselor for the state of MD and it really is all about finding support in your recovery in whatever outlet that may be. Emotional and spiritual support is huge when a person is overcoming any addiction, so I am so glad you have found your passion for art in your recovery. ~Liz
2 years ago
ArtisticIntentions says:
Beautiful work!
2 years ago
azulado says:
I love your work! It is lovely to hear the voice of someone that I love reading the blog articles and see what you create. Thank you! You are a person I admire.
2 years ago
shaylamaddox says:
Yay Jess!! So awesome! xo
2 years ago
girltuesdayjewelry says:
Awesome! Beautiful work Jess! Thank you for sharing this.
2 years ago
theeye says:
big fan, love your work
2 years ago
dorothydomingo says:
I have loved Jessica's art work for ages. May it continue to be "a light in dark places, when all other lights go out"
2 years ago
saintesmariesjewelry says:
Very beautiful pictures! its amazing! love your work! congrats!
2 years ago
HandcraftedorVintage says:
I have visited your shop quite often Jessica, to admire your work. The way you use colors touches me and I think I understand better now why that is. Very inspiring! Thank you for that.
2 years ago
recycledwares says:
thanks for sharing your video and life on the blog. this is the first time i've visited your blog, and i stayed for at least an hour reading the recent posts. it makes me want to read more. great writing style with titles that capture my attention.
2 years ago
AcaciaFlower says:
Beautiful artwork from an amazingly beautiful and inspiring person. This is my favorite QYDJ post yet. <3
2 years ago
sherrytruitt says:
Jessica, your story is inspiring, your art work, amazing. xo
2 years ago
KristynCooper says:
Awesome story and work! I watched this video and really enjoyed browsing in your shop.....and then I realized that you actually live about 1 hour away from me, and we graduated from the same art college! Keep up the great work!
2 years ago
GoodGriefGlass says:
Beautiful work. Thanks for sharing your story.
2 years ago
tortagialla says:
Wow, so inspiring! I also quit my job because it was driving me into a life I didn't want... now I'm working towards being a self sufficient artist. Beautiful work and it really is nice to know that I'm not the only one feeling a certain way or wanting a certain lifestyle... it's possible!
2 years ago
Luncheonettevintage says:
so inspiring, and lovely. love the camera work too, and the whole delicate way it comes together. and Jessica your story is really inspiring. Good for you for keeping it together that long!
2 years ago
galit says:
Great interview! I love Jessica's drawings!
2 years ago
pinkytoeclothing says:
What amazing art! Thanks for the interview, I love hearing the stories.
2 years ago
DowntownGirlDesigns says:
nice job! congrats!!
2 years ago
maxandolivia says:
beautiful work! congrats!!!!!
2 years ago
Firelily says:
I am such a fan of your art work. I have been trying to figure out my studio arrangement so I can put some of your work on the wall. I really respect your honesty and can relate very much to your story. I just celebrated 8 years clean and sober yesterday. That anniversary is the most important day of the year to me. Without it, I might not be here to live any of the other days. Erin
2 years ago
Illusio says:
Congratulations Jessica, and not before time. So proud of you. Well done my lovely. Lorrie xxxx
2 years ago
RedorGrayArt says:
tjis was just so encouraging..so honest, I know you help so many because of it
2 years ago
VerreDesign says:
Beautiful and inspirational, thank you:)
2 years ago
MissHildebrandt says:
Beautiful work. Never stop!
2 years ago
henatayeb says:
wow what gorgeous work.. and an inspirational story. Also congratulations on your sobriety.. it show great stregnth and proves its never to late to make a change and turn your life around.
2 years ago
loosethreads2 says:
Gorgeous artwork!
2 years ago
GwenDelicious says:
so inspiring...thank you!
2 years ago
momochas says:
Jessica´s shop was already one of my favorites. Her job is amazing! The shapes, use of colors,...love her creations!
2 years ago
elemegibere says:
Wonderful!
2 years ago
momochas says:
Jessica´s shop was already one of my favorites. Her job is amazing! The shapes, use of colors,...love her creations!
2 years ago
VedaArts says:
i made sure to burn the bridge that was my last job in order to motivate myself to become a stay at home mom, quit your day job painter! yay! great article and great art!
2 years ago
bedbuggs says:
Great article, thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
ecozuzu says:
LOVE the quote about drawing! :)
2 years ago
LoavesNFishes says:
Thank you for sharing. The artwork is beautiful!
2 years ago
gashjewels says:
Awesome !! Good for you..I hope one day I can sell my jewelry full time !! Dreams really do come true when you believe !!
2 years ago
seragun says:
Gorgeous work!
2 years ago
kristimcmurry says:
I love that you did a video this time! Very nice. And great story!
2 years ago
myBeachWishes says:
Great feature and beautiful artwork.This was such an important message to share- keep up your great work!
2 years ago
craftpile says:
Congrats! Beautiful work!
2 years ago
JessicaTorrant says:
Bravo Jessica!
2 years ago
Krystyna81 says:
"you're no different than anybody else" That's why we need artists like you, Jessica. Either with your words or your art, others who may be going thru the same thing you are going thru are looking for ways to express themselves - to put into words or images what they feel. Isn't it incredible gratifying - as an artist - to realize you are connecting with others? For, truly, art CAN NOT EXIST in a vaccuum.
2 years ago
Lunatiger says:
I've always loved your art work ever since I stumbled onto your shop as a newbie etsian. Very inspirational. Keep doing what your doing! ^_^
2 years ago
Ozknits says:
Such an inspirational feature of an extremely talented artist. You are wonderful Jessica!
2 years ago
PussDaddy says:
Congrats!
2 years ago
JoannasPhotography says:
Jessica, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and experiences. You are very authentic and extremely inspirational person. Thank you.
2 years ago
PoleStar says:
Great little story, look forward to checking out your blog. I have long loved your artwork.
2 years ago
breadandroses2 says:
Wonderful! Thank you for your story.
2 years ago
amyflutterbye says:
Jessica your art has inspired me since I hung it on my walls. To know that you have struggled with addiction as I have, makes your artwork even more inspiring! <3 Thank you for sharing someting so personal. It makes a difference!
2 years ago
KatWings says:
thank you so much for sharing this with everyone on etsy and the whole world really. what an inspiring story, and amazing art work!
2 years ago
FloweryDeer says:
Thanks for sharing such a great article.
2 years ago
love4rocks says:
Very inspiring story. Thanks a lot. Wonderful!
2 years ago
MyWonderlandDesigns says:
It is people like you that make us dying 9 to 5 ers rethink their lives. Thank you!
2 years ago
JeansVintageCloset says:
Love the Seahorse and George, Aquatic live in a different style. School of fish seems that they are looking back at you took me awhile to notice
2 years ago
GracensDesigns says:
Thank You for sharing your life with me. It made my heart sad, to hear how hard life has been for you, but so proud of you for fighting it back, and finding what it took to be happy. You are an inspiration and a very lovely person.
2 years ago
ShimmeringSky says:
This video 'article' really made me think, and more importantly, it made me want to learn more. More about what GHB addiction is (some shocking stats I read - I admire your amazing strength), more about your blog (such sincerity & honesty in your writing - you have an amazing 'voice'), and last but not least, your amazingly detailed yet almost dreamlike artwork - beautiful! You are a great artist & role model - congratulations on being recognized as such! Bobbie Langley, BC
2 years ago
Huismus says:
It's so great to see you up here! Yay!
2 years ago
pasin says:
Thanks your sharing
2 years ago
nanouke says:
Jessica is beautiful and so is her work :)
2 years ago
BlueTerracotta says:
Wonderful inspirational story! Thank you!
2 years ago
MegnificentCo says:
Tremendously inspirational. Thank you so much for sharing. I'm off to check out your blog!
2 years ago
Morado says:
Jesicca has been one of my favorite artists ever since I joined Etsy. It was nice connecting with her through this article. Thanks!
2 years ago
littleputbooks says:
Dude lady! You are amazing!!
2 years ago
JessicaDoyle says:
Wow! I've read each and every one of your comments from yesterday and today. Thank you all for your encouraging words and hope. :)
2 years ago
SepiaSmiles says:
That was a really good video and a interesting story. I love the soundtrack too - thanks for sharing with us - off to check out your blog!
2 years ago
ialbert says:
I salute you, amazing story and amazing work.
2 years ago
thaiamuletluckbuddha says:
Just beautiful! I love these items!
2 years ago
HillTribeCulture says:
Wow..Amazing Nice to see your Item.
2 years ago
HillTribeCulture says:
Best time to see You Love them All!
2 years ago
HillTribeCulture says:
Ohh.....Great Idea. i like it so much.
2 years ago
GothicGlassStudio says:
Inspiring to say the least. I am struggling with trying to squeeze my roundness into the squareness of an unrewarding, negative job. Change is on the way and my balance and spiritual fulfillment has been my art and my marketing. Gothic Glass Studio A fellow Canadian.
2 years ago
gyrlapple says:
Inspiring story - and I am sure many of us can relate. Thank you for sharing!
2 years ago
KDemARTe says:
Thank-you so much for sharing your story Jessica. I too had to leave my 9 to 5 job because of some serious health issues. I truly believe everything happens for a reason. Your story is amazing and inspiring. Keep on keeping on! Your artwork is beautiful, I can't wait to check out your blog!
2 years ago
valkasinskas says:
Thanks for being a real person and sharing your story! Your prints are very attentive and elegant. Val
2 years ago
OpenDoorStore says:
Thanks Jessica for the wonderful article and for all the times that you brought a smile my way : D
2 years ago
LorenzoTheCat says:
"The day job was killing me." Indeed! Beautiful story.
2 years ago
LorenzoTheCat says:
"The day job was killing me." Indeed! Beautiful story. Hooray for people who quit their day jobs.
2 years ago
ArtworkzByCheri says:
Thank you for sharing and may God continue to bless you! Great story! I can see that you would indeed touch many lives.
2 years ago
spiritcleanslate says:
Bless you from a fellow recoverying person of 30 years, and thank you for sharing with us, you touched my life today.
2 years ago
MyWisteriaCottage says:
Day job and life as we live it is unhealthy. I wish I only worked 9 to 5 but I get it.I love to be creative but I HAVE to make the money. Too many depend on me. As I age I hope there will still be time for me when I don't have to work.
2 years ago
JeannineCasaleDesign says:
You are such a talented artist, thanks for sharing
2 years ago
happymaxdesigns says:
What a great story and I love your work. You're so talented!
2 years ago
bazaarglass says:
Yeah, I draw a lot more these days! Kudos to you and your story. Thanks for sharing and I love your work!
2 years ago
traceygarciadesigns says:
Thanks so much for sharing your story! Your art is remarkable!
2 years ago
ralynn73 says:
I love your School of Fish print and the others as well. I love to draw, make pottery, and jewelry. All these are great therapy for whatever you're facing. I've had alot of health problems and making jewelry as a hobby helped me focus on other things. Thanks for sharing with us.
2 years ago
mykonos says:
lovely drawings!!
2 years ago
cleobelle says:
amazing work! great story :)
2 years ago
kelsetsy says:
Loved hearing your story. Your art is beautiful. Thank you for sharing and your honesty.
2 years ago
DeborahVoizin says:
Absolutely Beautiful work!
2 years ago
funkyart08 says:
Love you art!
2 years ago
peaceableempire says:
That's a seriously awesome story. Nice to see honesty paying off.
2 years ago
SatinandBirch says:
Dear Jessica, congrats friend, 4.5 is a lot. ox
2 years ago
Iammie says:
Love your shop.
2 years ago
friedasophie says:
Nice story
2 years ago
SandraDarling says:
cool, inspiring, love it thanks for sharing!
2 years ago
dianasartwork says:
Jessica that is a truly inspiring story. That gives me to courage to go forward with my dreams. Thank you for sharing.
2 years ago
PoeticArtImpressions says:
Thank you for this inspiring video. Just when I am feeling like I will neve be found on etsy I see this and feel encourged. Thank you.
2 years ago
RozarioCreations says:
Very inspiring. Someone who definitely gets it!!
2 years ago
PoeticArtImpressions says:
Thank you for this inspiring video. Just when I was feeling like I will never sell or get noticed on etsy I am encouraged by you to keep going... I will face the day with hope! Thank you.
2 years ago
loveartworks says:
Absolutely incredible! Big intense and wondrous Thank You's for putting yourself out there, sharing your story, courage and strength for all those who need it through your inspiring words and your beautiful art. I have admired your work for a long time and now I see why. May continued success and sobriety be with you every day! Peace and light to all.... :)
2 years ago
SilkstoneDesigns says:
Thank you so much for sharing your inspiring story. Your work is incredibly beautiful :)
2 years ago
EmelieSofie says:
Very inspiring!
2 years ago
replicca says:
your profile inspires a lot of emotion in me, having fought my own demons and currently finding peace through my work. some things remain an everyday challenge and hearing you talk about it is incredibly encouraging. all the best and never stop moving!
2 years ago
ravenhaired says:
Wonderful artwork. It's amazing how something as simple as a blog and be the beginning of an evolution into a whole new outlook on life.
2 years ago
strawberryluna says:
I love the idea that art can save a life. I agree wholeheartedly and it was really refreshing to see an interview take a different turn. Awesome, congrats too!
2 years ago
nikku says:
I loved this. Thank you.
2 years ago
paperannie says:
You inspire me.
2 years ago
ArtistaTree says:
I loved the video done by Elastic Lab. Jessica shows a lot of courage by sharing her experience and her art so openly. A real inspiration. Thanks!
2 years ago
TKIDesigns says:
Love it!
2 years ago
fascinique says:
I agree with 'Artista Tree'it takes a lot of courage to share personal life so openly. Great work and I like Jessica's opening photo "Sometimes the World Doesn't Make Sense...and That Is When You Draw"
2 years ago
lilyandgertrude says:
Beautifully done!
2 years ago
contempojewels says:
Good for you!
2 years ago
soulfuse says:
Jessica, you have an amazing sense of empowerment! All I can say is what others have said....."You rock"..... Best Wishes, Sandy
2 years ago
shadblow says:
Thank you for the vidio. It was inspiring.
2 years ago
blinddog1 says:
Jessica - greetings from OZ. I loved listening to your words and watching your beautiful smile. You've helped others through your words but more importantly by example. Love to you!
2 years ago