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

Alright, Lordéa thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Has your work ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized?

When I was in college, my art professors once talked with me in the hallway about the way my work was interpreted. Knowing that my artistic intentions were not aligned to their descriptions, I took time to focus on what propels me to put my thoughts to a canvas at all. I learned the significance of context; the way I exist in the world is not always aligned with the way I am seen. My work is an extension of the way I am experienced and so I must be responsible.

Lordéa, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I have been a painter since I was 11. Recording my experience of my body and human connection through the language of the body has been my interest since graduating college. I currently make commissioned work from physical to digital paintings, tattoo art and product design. What sets me apart is my drive for crossing the silent boundaries between people and the way I create a dark beauty through those distances. I’m most proud of the conversations I’ve had the privilege to create through my art as it’s usually a moment of reflection and appreciation. My mission is simply to question and inspire human connection.

: Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I believe in the power of exposure and opportunity. I’m wanting to create a space for attempting to understand rather than passing judgement. In my experience of being often misunderstood, I feel passionate about the underdog in most situations. I’m passionate about the experience often overlooked.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Being a creative is immensely rewarding for the community one can participate in and create. In my experience, I’ve had the opportunity to meet other people whose experiences shaped my world view in ways I did not expect. Being an artist sharing an art show with friends has made me feel as though our collective presence is a room worth entering. The door is vulnerability. The community of people I have gotten to know has enlightened me to the power of vulnerability and this informs my art, now.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @_lordea_
• Twitter: @_lordea_