We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Bitter Darlings a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Bitter Darlings , appreciate you joining us today. Risk taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory?
There wouldn’t be Bitter Darlings without lots of life changing risks. I moved to Atlanta in 2010 leaving my 2 children, husband and house in Little Rock, Arkansas. A year later they joined me. In 2015 I filed for divorce after almost 11 years of marriage. I started painting as a form of therapy. I was encouraged by friends and family to make my artistic expressions visible so I started going to art shows. In 2018 I incorporated Bitter Darlings. I think people have such negative connotations associated with divorce. Bitter Darlings represent both negative and positive. By definition, Bitter means (of people or their feelings or behavior) angry, hurt, or resentful because of one’s bad experiences or a sense of unjust treatment and Darling is used as an affectionate form of address to a beloved person. It’s a reminder that great things can come from hurt I believe there is beauty in pain and with that, you can always start over and begin new, positive and happy life experiences from difficult times.. March 13, 2020 was my last day as an educator. I taught Pre-K/K for 20 years.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers?
I am a self-taught artist and go by the name Bitter Darlings. My artistic journey began as a form of therapy and is one of the bravest things I’ve done in my whole life. Being an artist in itself is a very vulnerable act. My goal as an artist is to celebrate and represent women through my art, women who get up and get it done, live life to the fullest, and crave wonder and grace all while giving back and making a difference. I call these works of art “Bitter Darlings” because they embody whimsical, messy versions of perfectly imperfect beauty and capture how dynamic we are in a way that oftentimes cannot be adequately described with words. My paintings highlight the importance of inclusivity, equality, and our own unique being. I don’t think there is anything more definitive of beauty than acceptance and understanding. I find that very intriguing. Bitter Darlings are greatly inspired by women who rise to their full potential and represent empowerment. It is my hope that they encourage you to be joyous and fearless. I love being a woman artist and making art that romanticizes pain, confidence, and rebellion. My art tells people to freely express themselves and love everything about yourself. Whenever a purchase is made, I am filled with pride because of the connection that is created between art and soul. From original paintings to wearable art Bitter Darlings is certain to have pieces that will inspire a stylish lifestyle. by purchasing Bitter Darlings, you’re helping to support and empower women.
Do you sell on your site or do you use a platform like Amazon, Etsy, Cratejoy, etc? Tell us about your choice and the pros and cons in your view?
I sell my paintings on my website http://www.BitterDarlings.comwww.BitterDarlings.com. I created my website at the beginning of the pandemic. I’m not the most tech savvy person but I’m learning so I consider that a pro and a con. I would like to add… Target in conjunction with Hands On Twin Cities selected Bitter Darlings as a BIPOC small business for their pro bono project. I had a team of Target consultants that contributed their professional skills to help build and support my brands content/editorial email and marketing strategies and website operations. I am still needing to expand my brand awareness, build my email list, increase Social media following and how to use all e-commerce and social media platforms to my advantage.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
The pandemic caused me to pivot in my career. Pre-Covid I was an educator. I have a Bachelors in Early Childhood Development, a Masters in Instructional Technology and EdS in Curriculum and Teaching. Currently, I work in the film industry in the Costumes Department as well as building my art brand. My mom graduated at the top of her class in Fashion with emphasis on Costume Design from L.A Tech. She received the prestigious Golden Thimble Award for her “futuristic” design and was featured in the LA Times for her metallic pant suit design. I believe that fashion is a form of artistic expression. It connects us and allows us to express ourselves just like music and art.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bitterdarlings.com/
- Instagram: @bitterdarlings
- Facebook: @bitterdarlings
- Twitter: @bitterdarlings