We recently connected with Kristen Charlery and have shared our conversation below.
Kristen, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with us today. We’re excited to dive into your story and your work, but first let’s start with a broader topic that might be stopping many of our readers from pursuing their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. How have you managed to persist despite haters and nay-sayers that inevitably follow folks who are doing something unique, special or off the beaten path?
I persist through any sort of hate or nay saying simply because I am an artist. It’s almost-actually I believe it is instinctual for us to create. People, things and much more can come and go, but my goal is to create timeless work.
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?
My name is Kristen (Kris) Charlery and I am a photographer and Creative Director. My most recent project Anderson is featured in one group exhibition called the “Roots and Renaissance” group exhibition at Miles College in Fairfield Alabama. It is also featured in the 41st anniversary of Magic City Art Connection from April 26-28 at Sloss Furnaces in Birmingham Alabama. The Anderson series is an ode to many things that inspire my work as a creative. The first is the visual technique of my favorite film director Wes Anderson and the second is the closeness I feel to the Anderson name because of my Jamaican maternal family. With this project, I grew as an artist because I allowed myself to tell the world how I believe storytelling is a skill. It is something to be worked at, crafted, honed, and shared with others. With this Anderson project, I introduce to the world my work, ironically imperfect while it draws themes from perfect symmetry. The exhibition is my first and runs until May 10 Check it out if you can!
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?
The three things that impacted my journey thus far are passion, education and support. These are all things I graciously received because of my community. If you’re early in your career try anything out that you are interested in. You will learn a lot more from things you don’t like than things you do. Be adventurous and bet on yourself!
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am always looking for other creatives to collaborate with. I have a late night tv idea and I’m open to meeting with anyone who would be interested in partnering with me.
Contact Info:
- Website: krischarlery.photoshelter.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charleryhousephotos?igsh=OXVkMGNmamMxaDQw&utm_source=qr
Image Credits
Kristen Charlery
