We’re looking forward to introducing you to freedom clay . Check out our conversation below.
Good morning freedom clay , it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Outside of work or creating, an intentional state of gratitude is bringing me immense JOY these days. We are living in some of the most tumultuous times for many: politically, economically and socially. Hence, I’m grateful for choosing and centering JOY by acknowledging my basic needs being met day daily, i.e., food, shelter, clothing, the ability to make decisions independently regarding my wellbeing and an essential sense of belonging to a very small community network. This attitude of gratitude continues to unequivocally attract abundance in ways unimaginable in my life. Again, I’m truly grateful.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m freedom clay, a multi-hyphenate creative, residing in the Bull City. I’m primarily known for my Afro Folk Art aesthetic, which has become globally recognized and continues to evolve over time. I love telling stories as well as inspiring conversations, encouraging storytelling and critical thinking from viewers through my various forms of artistic expressions: painting, sculpting, writing poetry and photography. My creations are also reflective; oftentimes querying or making meaning of what’s going on in the world and how it’s impacting humanity.
Currently, I’m continuing to incorporate fabric into my creations, along with my signature, vibrant color palette. Additionally, I’m holding space for me to be still so I can continue to create from a place of authenticity and inspiration versus societal persuasion.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Typically, what breaks the bonds between people are dissenting value systems, communication challenges, lacking understanding of who people are and not accepting accountability for their inappropriate or hurtful behavior.
In contrast, what restores or maintains bonds between people are developing shared or complementary value systems, engaging in constructive communication, seeking to understand who people are and celebrating their unique attributes and establishing cooperative trust.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be to celebrate marching to the beat of your own drum because it is one of your superpowers. Continue to lean into it with wonder, pride, peace and joy.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, the public version of me is the REAL me. I have a kind and welcoming disposition; though, I’m a classic ambivert. In fact, I’m more of an introvert than an extrovert. Oftentimes, people meeting me publicly initially assume I’m very gregarious. I’m not; however, I value authentic engagement with others centered in gratitude. These exchanges can be emotionally invigorating; yet, physically exhausting for me. Consequently, I like to sequester myself after social/work events to relax, release and restore.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
The stories I hope people tell about me when I’m on the other side include my deep and abiding love for humanity with an emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion, living freely, the arts (creating and appreciating), lifelong learning and traveling internationally. Moreover, he was to himself and lead with kindness, thoughtfulness and integrity.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @freedomclay
- Twitter: @freedomclay
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/14PGoRgH4Qq/?mibextid=wwXIfr
