Meet Sherrie Elyse Penn | Film Set Painter and Sculptor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sherrie Elyse Penn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sherrie Elyse, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Work life balance means doing what makes you happy and fulfilled.

A few years ago I made the decision to make time for what was most important to me. I wanted to fulfill my purpose and do what I could to make the world a better place. After I left college in 2012, I volunteered many hours with peaceful activist organizations. Activism is hard work but standing up for what you believe in is never easy. I organized festivals, lobbied legislation and helped educate others about unknown food contaminants and sustainable alternatives. I spent the majority of my free time in this effort until my passions shifted. During this time I discovered meditation and personal development.

In 2013 I had what is often referred to as a spiritual awakening; seeing all as one. Personal growth became my focus.

As I gradually shifted my focus from external change to inward change I scheduled more time to meditate and do other mindful exercises. Every morning I do a morning practice that’s become an essential part of my day. I write, meditate, sit in silence, contemplate and plan before I start my day. The practice refreshes me and helps me clear my mind. I started my meditation routine by only 5 min of meditation per day in the mornings. That alone made a difference in my life. Gradually I increased the time to 10 minutes, 15 minutes, and today I meditate about 30 minutes per day. When my schedule opens up I do longer sessions and occasionally retreats. I’ve hosted group meditations and Kung Fu inspired workouts. Being accountable to others helped me to keep up my routine as well. Many say they don’t have time to meditate. I often hear the phrases “I need to meditate” or “I don’t have time”. We have time for what we schedule.

What work life balance looks like to me may not be what it looks like to you or someone else. It can look different for every individual. I believe it’s important to know what makes you happy and take action.

I work long hours in the film industry but I’m passionate about what I do. I’ve had the good fortune of working with incredible human beings. Talent is impressive but what’s impacted me most is the perseverance and character of great crew members.

I strive to be in love with life and share that with others. Balance is more than even proportions of time between work and other activities. It’s an energetic and mental state. Living life in harmony with oneself is balance. We’re meant to grow, thrive and awaken to our truest version of ourselves. Were meant to truly live.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m most proud of my perseverance. I’ve committed to live a conscious and fulfilling life while serving with others. In recent months I began sculpting, painting and creating props for film sets. I’m excited to continue on future productions.

Although I graduated from a well known art school I didn’t know how to begin a creative career and I was insecure. I was taught how to be a professional in a gallery setting but I became disenchanted by that environment. I didn’t feel like I was good enough to work alongside the true film professionals and I didn’t know what options were available. Overcoming a limited mindset was key for my movement forward. I’ve learned to stay positive and roll with the punches.

After college I worked for an online automotive company for about 5 years and while it was a good learning experience it was grueling work. Finally I made a leap of faith, left that job and made a decision to get on a creative and more fulfilling career path.

I want the world to know they always have a choice to take a higher path. Doors will open for you once you decide to take action on what’s important to you. Living a life of balance and awakening is always available.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would take them to Little 5 Points, Ponce City Market, the Beltline, Piedmont Park, Arabia Mountain, and favorite meditation places such as Atlanta Pranic Healing Center and the M. A. Center of Atlanta.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I may not have had the courage to make move forward in a film career had it not been for Brice Ward, a colleague of mine who’s encouraged me. He’s helped me stay balanced amidst chaos with his Zen state of mind. There are a number of wonderful souls that have been greatly supportive of me and given me advice.

Website: sherrielysepenn.com

Instagram: instagram.com/sherrieelyse

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherriepenn/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sherriesculptor

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/KnowingThroughGrowing/videos

Image Credits
Portrait by Sharom Cabezas Gallery photos by ART BROWNIE an Ocean & Pounds project