We recently connected with Leah Horton and have shared our conversation below.
Leah, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Being the only one in the room who looks like me has been a defining aspect of my journey towards effectiveness and success. This journey began during my formative years and continued until my graduation from a predominantly white institution (PWI). From pre-K through 12th grade, I was consistently the only little brown face in the room, and this uniqueness was amplified by the fact that I am also neurodivergent, making me feel distinct even in rooms where I resemble others physically. Naturally I felt a sense of otherness. I further struggled because even the role models and leaders I aspired to be didn’t look like me. This initial feeling of isolation sometimes led me to compare myself negatively to those around me. It was a battle against my own inner saboteur, telling me that I didn’t belong or couldn’t measure up. To anyone facing similar circumstances, I advise you not to listen to your inner saboteur. Instead, embrace your uniqueness and let it be the guiding light on your journey towards effectiveness and success. I realized that there were preconceived notions about who I was before I even had the chance to speak or showcase my capabilities. However, as I navigated these uncharted waters, I learned some invaluable lessons. Being the focal point of attention, I began to use this spotlight to my advantage, rather than feel isolated or burdened by my uniqueness. I came to the notion that my worth was not defined by external perceptions or the limitations others might impose upon me. I learned to harness the spotlight that naturally fell on me and use it to showcase my talents and creativity. By doing so, I was able to shift the conversation in the room away from my race to my talents and contributions. It was my distinct perspective that became a valuable asset. Over time, I discovered that when you naturally stand out, you have the power to shape your own path. It gave me the chance to not only challenge stereotypes but also to be a trailblazer, demonstrating that diversity can be a source of strength and innovation. It became clear that my unique perspective and experiences were assets that I could use to drive positive change and make a lasting impact. Further, I’ve realized the importance of advocating for inclusivity and promoting diversity in all aspects of life. Diversity and representation matter. Building connections with individuals from various backgrounds has not only expanded my knowledge and understanding but has also opened doors to opportunities and collaborations that have contributed to my success. I embrace and champion diversity as a fundamental goal in any space I enter, whether personal or professional. It has instilled in me a deep commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion, knowing that in a melting pot of backgrounds and experiences, we truly flourish and make meaningful progress as a society and as individuals. I encourage others to embrace being the difference in the room. Remember that diversity, in all its forms, is a strength, and it’s something we should actively promote in every space we enter. Embrace your uniqueness and look forward to being different from your colleagues and peers, for it is precisely this uniqueness that will enable you to learn, grow, and make a lasting impact as a human being. Your journey may be challenging, but it’s also an incredible opportunity for personal growth and for enriching the world around you.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
Leah Baynes Horton comes from multiple generations of North Carolina natives. Nestled next to a forest in Raleigh, North Carolina, she was born and raised in an environment teeming with natural beauty. Leah ignited her artist desires at a young age. Growing up under the guidance of a scientist, Leah’s captivation with anatomy and physiology found its way into her artwork. At an early age she explored the translation of the introspection of human physiology and psychiatry’s tangible expressions in fine art. Her science odyssey continues as she learns about interplay between her mediums and their effects on the human psyche. She triumphed against the challenges of neurodivergence and constantly delves into the depths of her mind and thoughts. Despite facing academic and artistic criticism, she prevailed over these obstacles, driven by her determination to thrive as an artist. She constantly traveled parts of the world as an adolescent, giving her a nomadic outlook on life. A desire for freedom moved her into dabbling in her passion for fashion design and textiles at Parsons The New School in Manhattan, expanding her artistic repertoire. Even in the bustling city, her fascination with nature persists. Perhaps this stems from her adolescent atmospheres and her childhood spent gardening, where she viewed flowers as rewards and expressions of emotions. Today, her love for textiles continues to merge seamlessly with her fine art. The vibrancy and fluttery freedom of creating textiles with watercolors has become a cherished part of her artistic process, imbuing her artwork with a unique charm. Inspired by her artistic evolution, she is actively expanding new artistic horizons across multiple outlets of creative industries. She desires to push the boundaries of her craft while exploring the depths of her mind, thoughts and the mind of others. Committed to her craft, she is infusing her art with a sense of curiosity, vibrancy, and the ever evolving nature of creativity. Her fabrics and prints are available for order in a variety of tapestry, clothers, pillows, napkins, placemats, wallpaper, home decor, greeting cards and more. She also creates custom portraits. Recently she has had some international showcasing and a pop up gallery called Harmonizing Chaos: A Journey Through Fabric. This is a 20 piece series that is on sale for originals and print to order.
Through my art, I have embarked on an exploration of fabric prints and their ability to impact mental health positively. I have learned that colors, patterns, and textures of fabrics have a profound effect on our emotions, and my work seeks to tap into that potential to promote mental wellness. My work reflects a desire to connect with nature and spread joy and positivity through vibrant colors and playful motifs. I am constantly drawn to the natural world and the sense of freedom and possibility that it embodies. In my work, I seek to capture the essence of the free-spirit and carefree existence that nature represents. Like life and nature, watercolor is a fluid and unpredictable medium that often takes on a life of its own; which is perhaps what initially drew me to it. I have created loose portraits of faces surrounded by intricate patterns, insects, and elements of nature. I aim to explore and celebrate the unique beauty and individuality of each face. The faces represent the human psyche, which is a complex and beautiful entity; surrounded by a clear coat to protect their peace. Ultimately, my intention was to create a dreamlike, ethereal world where the boundary between human and nature blurs; this is a recurring theme in all my work in my career thus far. My art is a celebration of vibrant patterns, chaotic forms, and maximalist compositions. Nature, abstract forms, and everyday objects, invoke my mind to transform them into unique and vibrant prints that bring a sense of joy and positivity to the viewer. While my art may seem overwhelming at first, I believe that the process of engaging with it can be deeply therapeutic. By immersing oneself in my world, one can experience a sense of release and freedom. The solo elements being in the fabric is a way of reminding us that everything is connected. The realization that in every chaotic piece each element is connected is a recognition of balance in our lives and a larger metaphor for life itself. Through my mental health journey, I continue in my belief that everything happens for a reason in life and so it subsequently happens in my work. I am passionate about the healing power of art and I desire to use my creativity to support those who may be struggling with mental health challenges. I invite the viewer to reflect on their own mental health journey and to find comfort in the knowledge that they are on a path to healing. Through my processes and work, I have found that my art has become a powerful tool in my own journey towards healing. I hope it does the same for you as well.
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?
Looking back on my journey, three qualities and skills have been pivotal in my success. First and foremost, adaptability has proven to be indispensable. Life is in a constant state of flux, so embrace adaptability as your guiding star. The ability to adapt and evolve is essential for sustaining one’s career. Keep learning, keep growing, and recognize that the beauty of the world lies in its constant motion. Embrace life’s unpredictability, and understand that self-evolution is a lifelong endeavor. Welcoming the unpredictable nature of life has been a lasting quality that I’ve cultivated. It has opened so many doors in my career that I would have never thought about. It has also helped me become a better creator. Second, dare to embrace failure, for it is a profound teacher. Embracing failure has been transformative. Despite numerous setbacks and moments of self-doubt, I’ve come to view failure as a valuable teacher. In those moments when your inner saboteur tries to steal your confidence, focus instead on the lessons within each setback. Failure often conceals the doorway to unforeseen and remarkable opportunities. Some of my most loved work has derived from a so-called failure. Often, what appears as a negative turn of events has been the gateway to unexpected and innovative paths. Lastly, learning to advocate for oneself is a skill of paramount importance. Being your own advocate, cheerleader, and motivator is a challenge, yet it’s equally crucial. You are your best advocate, and your dreams deserve your unwavering support. Early in my journey, I grappled with this, but I’ve come to understand its immense importance. My advice is to find your voice and be confident in articulating your aspirations and needs. Don’t wait for others to recognize your potential; take the initiative to shape your path and seize opportunities. Being your own advocate empowers you to take charge of your journey and make deliberate choices that align with your goals. My advice to those starting their journey is to nurture these qualities—adaptability, resilience in the face of failure, and self-advocacy. They will not only propel your career but also empower you to navigate the dynamic and unpredictable terrain of life with confidence and purpose.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I find myself overwhelmed, I turn to a simple yet powerful strategy that has always been my refuge. I ensure I have an accessible “happy place” within reach. I always stress the accessibility because you want to be able to have this at the drop of a hat. While many turn to art as a therapeutic outlet during times of distress, my profession often blurs the line between my creative passion and overwhelming responsibility. My happy place is the water. Being in the water has always been my sanctuary. For me it’s a place where the world’s chaos recedes, and inner peace prevails. Whether it’s a serene day at the beach, a peaceful moment by a tranquil lake, or simply a comforting soak in a bath, the calming presence of water rejuvenates my spirit and restores my equilibrium. It’s where you can shed the weight of the world, dance to the rhythm of your heart, and nurture your soul’s wild desires. The importance of a happy place lies in its ability to recharge your free spirit, remind you of your essence, and provide a canvas for your most vivid dreams. It’s a reminder that, in a world that often tries to confine, your spirit is boundless, and your happiness knows no bounds. A “happy place” has proven essential for maintaining my mental well-being. I encourage others to discover their own sanctuary, a refuge that can provide solace when life becomes overwhelming. So, don’t be afraid to just let go for a moment because your mental well being out weighs anything in your career.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.spoonflower.com/profiles/the_human_collection_?iref=clk-xs-by-name&fbclid=IwAR2YlbEHjGZsVtLpsDnyi7AX_9IcJ8STEUctwKl20BdWh15oqVBh-IV9xls
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shoparificpinkgirl/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-horton-966a75156/
- Other: https://hortl401.wixsite.com/thehumancollection/
Image Credits
Leah Horton
