Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Phoenix Niewidok . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Phoenix thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
Have you ever reached a goal and still felt a little unsettled? I had been a successful hairstylist and colorist for a little over 25 years. Creating fashion was always a passion. Mix that with art and your giving me fuel for my soul. So what if I totally bagged hair and just focused on creating artful fashion. When I moved to Fort Lauderdale I immersed my self in the arts and creative community. When I surround my self with like minded and out of the box thinkers I find it exilerating. If you don’t jump off of the cliff you never learn how to fly. My heart was full and then the pandemic hit adding a level of anxiety which I have never felt before.. I began merging some of my designs with remnets from artists paintings and playing with other ideas. Time is the catalyst that brings change. So we had an opportunity to trade the beaches for blizzards and move to MN for a little while. I am currently connecting with some seasoned sewists and textile artists. This new chapter will challenge me . Risk taking is the road less traveled but also the road that sparks your soul once you cross it .

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am an active seeker of the arts. The universe has always been there to guide me . Sometimes I just have to make sure I’m aware of the signs. Upcycling fashion and merging it with textiles and other ingredients is how I create my garments. I love talking with clients as they share stories of how they designed their garments by hand back in the day .Learning from others has always been a gift. Our environment could really use some love so connecting with the community helps create positive change. Authenticity and inclusivity is the tread of everyone that I work with . Listening, Learning and challenging my self to contribute to making the world more united while designing upcycled fashion alternatives is my gig.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Living on your own terms.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
I absolutely cringe when people say what’s your real job? Is this your hobby. Most creative people are a different breed.. A little fearless yet shy. For me conforming to fit in society feels uncomfortable . I’m fine just being myself. Judging seems to be the norm for some when they see something different and say, “I would never do that.” Maybe not and that’s ok. We all need to be respectful of one another. Everyone’s journey is different so let’s lift each other up. #teamhumanrace

Contact Info:

• Website: Skirtzophrenic.com
• Instagram: Phoenix.laurie
• Linkedin: Laurie Phoenix Niewidok

Image Credits
Paul McDermott Photography Leonardo Trindade (model ) Nicki Gilmore ( model ) Black and white fabric art ( Rosanna Kalis )