We recently connected with Adrienne White and have shared our conversation below.

Adrienne, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

I think the very idea that there’s a difference between a “regular job” and creative work is erroneous. Creative work IS work. It’s as legitimate a path as any other; though we are trained to think of it as “soft labor” and therefore often not worthy of a livable income. Unless, of course, that creative work serves the goals of capitalism. Most creatives I know, including myself, often have to take their creative talents to a “regular job” to make ends meet. In those jobs, we are often seen as creative machines, as if our ability to tap into our creativity is an endless reservoir.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I got into up cycling at a time when I was mostly making zines and illustrating. I happened to also be curating a monthly art pop up in an independent gallery space where the artists would collaborate on various designs or creations. Through this organic process, I cut my chops in the realm of textiles and pigments. A few years into this project, I worked under a few independent designers honing my skills on the sewing machine.

Cut to the present day, I’ve honed my process and find myself as a resident in several stellar spaces: Chinatown Soup in Manhattan and Velma Vintage in Brooklyn. I’ve since become a Reiki master and stylist who has integrated all of my offerings into something called “intuitive styling”.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

I don’t believe a select few being creative. I think human beings are inherently creative, and that creativity can be employed towards any endeavor.

For those of us who have chosen to earn their income in a more technical field, let’s say, I would advise that you see the professional creatives in your life as peers. And if you earn a higher income than they do, support their work both emotionally and financially. Also, if they are open to it, allow them to help you get in touch with your own creativity.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Hands down my community / communities have taught me everything about growing as a professional artist. Why? Because we are all figuring it out together and sharing resources as we go. The list of people I share creative spaces and ideas with could fill pages and volumes.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.yxen.store
• Instagram: @yxen_services
• Other: Reiki bookings throughhttps://spiritsoup.as.me/schedule/e39b77e0/appointment/61232492/calendar/9966201

Image Credits

Lucidlux Photography
Victor Castro