Aisha Saran (née Ieisha Patterson)
Resident: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Education: Lincoln University
Loves: English, Drama, Comedy
Do you most often actively seek inspiration or does it find you? Or is there a combination of the two?
Usually inspiration finds me. I’ve always been a little different from a lot of people in regards to my thinking and actions. I’m a bit of an old soul and get inspired by things that stand the test of time, such as fashion, music, etc.
What led you to art in general and to your art form(s) in particular?
I’ve had a very dysfunctional personal background from the very beginning of my life. I moved around a lot and had to constantly adjust to other people and surroundings. In many ways, I had to become an “actress” as a child to survive the ways of the world.
In addition to mastering their art, what other skill sets do you recommend that artists develop if they want to be successful?
Being business savvy, in regards to understanding people and understanding money. Also, it is crucial for one to know how to separate business from pleasure so that succumbing to emotions won’t be what ultimately leads to demise.
How do you stay at the leading edge of your craft?
I study other people and research their life experiences. As human beings we are all connected and can learn something from one another. As an actress, I have to understand human nature to accurately portray a role.
Do you think that there are any widely held misconceptions about art and/or artists? If so, what are they and how do you work to dispel them?
Yes, I believe specifically in the United States that artists (rather musicians, actors, etc.) are put on this pedestal as if they are gods and are incapable of flaws. It’s a double-edged sword because as a society we idolize celebrities yet secretly wait for their downfall to feel better about ourselves in certain cases. I work to dispel this misconception by making it clear from the beginning that I am a human being first and refuse to change who I am to appease the masses. If I don’t appeal to you then you don’t have to support me. You can’t please everyone.
How do you map out your goals? How do you measure your success?
I’ve always been a person who had a plan. I like to be able to refer to guidelines so I know the parameters in which I should stay in. That keeps me grounded, thus I measure my success by the way I feel. It’s not always about money, but rather a healthy state of mind and very little stress. I like to feel productive.
Who do you consider to be your peers in your field? Who do you see and use as examples for you to emulate?
One of my best friends whom I met as an undergraduate student in college works at the company I currently reside. He initially told me about the job opening and I applied then got the job. I would use him as someone I want to emulate because he is one of the most hardworking people I know with an optimistic attitude and pragmatic way of thinking.
Name two of your top role models: one in the art world and one from outside of it.
In the art world my role model is Alicia Keys. I’ve always been enamored with her natural beauty, her intelligence, and her musical sincerity. I also admire how she doesn’t feel the need to show all of her skin in order to gain a wider audience. She knows her worth as a woman and exudes class. From outside of the art world my role model would be myself. In my life I haven’t really had anyone who I wanted to mirror my life after due to a lot of their own poor choices which ended up hurting me. I look to myself to set the tone for how I want my life to be.
Name three books, works, performances or exhibits that changed how you view life and yourself.
1) Incidents in the Life of A Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs (book)
2) Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston (book)
3) Hamlet by William Shakespeare (play)
Why do you consider continued learning important?
Continued learning is important because it’s what keeps you conscious of the world around you. One can better understand cultures, religions, philosophy, relationships, and so much more if studying occurs. It’s especially important for people to learn about things they don’t like too, because as the adage goes, “in order to defeat the enemy you must study the enemy.”
What affirmations do you repeat to yourself that contribute to your success?
It’s not that deep!
Don’t take things so personally.
No one said life would be fair.
Be the change YOU want to see.
What role does art have in the community? What role would you like to see art play in the community?
The role art has in the community is by being the outlet people have to achieve the dreams they had as children (or still have as children). It’s a healthy way to relieve stress by being different and creating something beautiful. I would like to see the role of art in my community played out in just that way, especially in regards to people of color. Youth in inner cities need to know that they are important and have something of value to contribute to society.
What role does technology play in your day-to-day life? How do you utilize it?
In my personal day-to-day life technology is mainly used for television, social media, and music. I recently bought an iPhone and it is like a friend I never want to lose. I’m able to be on my social media whenever I have to but I also am on YouTube a lot looking up different music that I wouldn’t have access to on the radio, i.e. Minnie Riperton and Phyllis Hyman.
What software, app or other technological innovation has made the biggest difference in your life and/or career?
Facebook has had the biggest affect in my life due to how much easier it now is to network with other people in different states and around the world. Especially as an actress, I am able to connect with people I meet and express my desire for future opportunities.
Please define your personal brand.
Aisha Saran is a woman who is serious about her acting craft, treating others as she would want to be treated, and knowing when and when not to act solely on emotion. Aisha is very honest, respectful, and intelligent, but does not put up with disrespect and/or phoniness. She is a person who has integrity and the most sincere intention of being her absolute best. She has been through too much in her life to live the rest of it unhappily.
What is your favorite vacation destination and why?
My favorite vacation destination would be at an amusement park because that is when I’m my happiest. I love roller coasters, getting caricatures drawn, and being with loved ones. I feel like a child again and free! ☺
If you could change one thing about the world, what would it be?
I would change how nosy people are. If people minded their own business and only focused on their lives the world would be a much better place. Too many people are way too concerned about other people, and at the end of the day, their lives have nothing to do with theirs.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I would change how much of a perfectionist I am. Sometimes I am too concerned with not making a mistake although no one is perfect and mistakes will happen in life.
What does it take to be iconic? In your estimation, who has achieved that status?
In order to be iconic one has to stand the test of time and know how to reinvent his or herself so that they stay relevant, but also authentic. In my opinion, Diana Ross has achieved this status.
