Meet Freedom Clay

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Freedom Clay. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Freedom clay , so great to have you on the platform. There’s so much we want to ask you, but let’s start with the topic of self-care. Do you do anything for self-care and if so, do you think it’s had a meaningful impact on your effectiveness?

As a creator/creative, self-care (I prefer self-preservation) is critically essential to my overall wellness, creativity and productivity. Self-preservation involves believing in myself and not internalizing the perception or reception of others regarding my creations or creative point of view; creating from a place of inspiration versus social persuasion; giving myself the freedom and space to explore and create void of harsh critiques; being intentional about not comparing my divine creative gifts to others; and most importantly allowing myself to be still and unapologetically rest. The impact of this conscious state of being continues to be a work in progress and has made a remarkable difference in centering joy and excitement on my creative journey and productivity.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Artistically, I’m enjoying working with fabric as a medium to create as well as telling and encouraging meaningful storytelling via my photography, as evidenced by my most recent successful, solo photography exhibition, “freedom clay’s re-imagined kitchen table series: paying homage to Ms. Carrie Mae Weems”.

I also enjoy curating “ Pop up Markets” via “Artsy People of Color” showcasing other multi-talented creatives and their art/products hosted by local and independently owned establishments.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Believing in myself, being “impeccable” with my word and not comparing my creative gifts to other creatives have been most impactful on my artistic journey. Actually, I’m still in awe and humbled by the kind and generous reception by others regarding my artistic point of view, while not being enslaved to the feedback. I’ve learned to embrace my style without harshly judging it and continuing to be open to stretching myself creatively.

Along my creative journey, I’ve really enjoyed supporting and highlighting other creatives by creating various opportunities for them to amplify and showcase their work and ideas. This requires special relational skills and maintenance void of ego and honoring said commitments. Additionally, celebrating my artistic contributions and not comparing my creations to others has made a healthy difference in genuinely supporting and creating opportunities for other talented creatives. Not only is art subjective, there’s room for everyone who desire to share their work with the masses.

Hence, my advice to blooming creatives is to believe in yourself, honor your artistic commitments and don’t compare yourself to others.

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?

When I’m feeling overwhelmed, I try to take a step back and breathe, which is an intentional process. It’s not always as easy as it sounds; yet, so necessary for emotional, mental and physical stability, safety and wellness. I’m a proponent of restorative rest when feeling overwhelmed. Disengaging or unplugging is paramount for continued growth and creative development.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @freedomclay
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/afrofolkartbyfreedomclay?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Twitter: @freedomclay

Image Credits

n/a