We were lucky to catch up with Priya Rama recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Priya , thanks for joining us today. One of our favorite things to hear about is stories around the nicest thing someone has done for someone else – what’s the nicest thing someone has ever done for you?

My husband has been the epitome of kindness, in his total support, encouragement and help! No matter where I am in my process, what problems I may encounter, especially getting in my own head, and any logistics involved in getting the art out of my studio to the world, he is the calming presence, with the words I need in that moment. His everyday kindness keeps me together and this especially matters because he just does not complain! When you suffer from chronic migraines, wherein routine is hard to maintain, my husband just goes with the flow.
I am truly blessed to have a partner who is really that.

Priya , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I paint the images I experience inside my head during episodes of chronic migraines. I am making visible what is otherwise hidden and not shared. By making public what happens privately, I hope to make conversations about pain and illness easier. And, with my paintings offering an insider perspective on migraines, I hope to broaden understanding of the migraine process. My paintings are also relatable to others who suffer from migraines. I have been in art fairs where someone will walk right up to a painting and declare, “This is exactly like my migraine!” That validation is so beneficial to me and others!

I feel so proud that I am able to do what I am doing.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Support and buy from your local artists and creators– this acknowledges our hard work, and years of learning. Attend art shows, lectures, exhibitions; interact with the artist and their works. Take time to enjoy the work, and notice the details. Ask questions about their process and journey. The Arts offer new perspectives and new learnings, and that needs encouragement!

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

I dropped out of my doctoral program because the migraines were so relentless–I was in constant pain and overmedicating. I had to step back and begin to heal myself. This was not easy to do. I started painting my migraines. Eventually I started sharing my work in art fairs and shows. And that has led to an entirely different trajectory!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://priyarama.com
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/priyaramaart
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/priyaramaart
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E21pLNYGzSQ

Image Credits

Copyright Priya Rama