In addition to providing a luxury shopping experience on this platform, we also want to provide you with great knowledge about how to take care of yourself during these unprecedented times and moving forward. Self-care is literally an act of resistance. So, to kick-off our journal series ‘AS SELF-CARE', we were honored to connect with DC-based fine artist and illustrator, Lindsay Adams' to discuss painting as self-care.
S:
Before we jump in to discussing your beautiful artwork, how have you been doing during this time?
LA:
This time has been beautiful, concerning, and peculiar all at once. Though I have found great productivity from working from home and social distancing; between the heightened racial relations, continuous police brutality, and death tolls from COVID, my heart is often heavy.
S:
How and when did you begin painting?
LA:
I never thought about becoming a model. My dream was to become an actress but I guess modeling chose me. People kept telling me to try and the day I tried it never stopped.
S:
How does painting make you feel?
LA:
It is both my peace and my protest. It is the release that brings me both sanity and pause, and helps get out everything I have going inside, or respond to everything happening around me.
S:
One of your IG accounts is @ipaintinheels. Tell us about the name. Do you paint in heels?
LA:
I actually began sunsetting that account a little while ago. It used to be my illustration page, but decided to migrate into one profile to show my range as an artist. I have painted in heels, mainly for live painting events, but most of the time, I’m barefoot.
I love a nice heel situation, though!
S:
What inspires your work as an artist?
LA:
I am very inspired by textures, color, and culture. I think every place and experience leaves you with a different feeling or emotion. I love taking it all, and using that in my art and figures.
S:
During these tumultuous times, have you found yourself more or less inspired to create?
LA:
Surprisingly, I’ve been more inspired. I knew social distancing and quarantining could’ve gone one or two ways for me. I could’ve been at a creative low, and not painting; or I could keep creating with all of the time I had on my hand. I did not want to put too much pressure on myself to create something grand in these unprecedented times, but I did want to make the best use of my time and tackle some projects I had been putting off.
‘‘
Surprisingly, I’ve been more inspired. I knew social distancing and quarantining could’ve gone one or two ways for me. I could’ve been at a creative low, and not painting; or I could keep creating with all of the time I had on my hand.
’’
S:
We can see from your Instagram that you are a wellness warrior. We love it! Is there anything that inspired this journey?
LA:
I have Cerebral Palsy, which is a disease. A group of disorders that affect a person's ability to move and maintain balance and posture. Because of this, I am very aware of my physical, mental, and emotional space; and want to work my hardest to preserve my best health. There are many things I can't control with my CP, but yoga, selfcare, and consistent faith practices help me keep things together.
S:
Is painting a form of self-care for you?
LA:
Absolutely. My figures and abstracts are my favorite; I think I can really let loose there.
S:
Beyond painting, what are some of your other self-care practices or rituals?
LA:
I pray and do daily devotions and meditation. I love yoga and running, and add that into my routine whenever I can. Every day, I have a bit of tea/coffee ritual that is really soothing for me. I take my time making each cup, and its always a great start to my day.
S:
Is there anything new (self-care or wellness wise) that you want to try for the first time?
LA:
I want to try acupuncture. I’ve heard it's really helpful.
S:
Either in your home, or elsewhere, where is your sanctuaire (sanctuary) for peace and relaxation?
LA:
Definitely my home, and my mom’s house. I feel like those are two places I can really just relax and embrace the Zen. I can see plants, have tea, and be surrounded by the people I love.
S:
What are you most grateful for?
LA:
Love, peace, and community.
S:
What are you looking to manifest for the remainder of this year and into the next?
LA:
I really want to expand my reach. I would love to see my art and writing in more places, and continue to share my story with others and continue to support the disability communicate and advocate for those in need.
