Story & Lesson Highlights with Lis Rafailedes of Seattle

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Lis Rafailedes. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Lis, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A typical day for me is pretty full — and starts with face licks from my puppy! I get my daughter ready for school and make her breakfast before heading out for a jog around the Capitol Hill or Eastlake neighborhood. After a quick shower and bite to eat, I plug into my day job at an arts nonprofit, where my work can range from administrative tasks to painting murals — every day looks a little different. Once I pick up my daughter, we usually have some creative playtime together before dinner and a walk. After she’s in bed, I often spend some quiet time working on design projects on my iPad or painting.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a freelance artist and designer bringing playful, colorful stories to life for children. I’ve illustrated three children’s books and am working on my fourth — my first as both author and illustrator. My work is all about sparking joy and wonder through bright, uplifting imagery.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
After having my daughter, my perspective on life changed dramatically. Watching her grow has helped me reconnect with my inner child and remember what brought me joy as a kid — especially making art and music. Now, I love asking her questions and drawing alongside her, seeing the world through her imagination and rediscovering that sense of wonder for myself.

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
It’s been a long journey for me to open up and be vulnerable with others. My childhood experiences shaped me into a very guarded adult. I love people and value friendships and warm connections, but I’ve always struggled to share my hardships, often hiding behind them.

This past year, I decided to take a risk and be vulnerable when applying for an art grant. I shared my childhood challenges and my struggles with mental health. That openness led to being awarded the grant, which has allowed me to launch my citywide project, Canvas for Change. Through this project, I provide free large canvases and custom art to social service organizations — from youth mental health services to food banks and addiction recovery centers — turning my own pain into something meaningful and supportive for others.

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends know that my daughter always comes first in my life. I am passionate about creating a safe, loving, fufiling life for her. They also know that I deeply value meaningful friendships and connections. I’m passionate about sharing my art with others in a way that brings them joy, sparks creativity, and creates moments of wonder in their everyday lives.

Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
I would stop the self-doubt and negative self-talk. I’ve spent too much of my life questioning my abilities and holding myself back. If I had only 10 years left, I would share my ideas and creations freely, putting them out into the world without worrying about judgment or what others might think. Also- I would stop putting off travel. I have dreams of going to Iceland!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://LisRafailedes.com
• Instagram: @Lis.Rafail
• Linkedin: Lis Rafailedes

Image Credits
N/A I took the photos.