ARTIST Q&A

Where do you find inspiration?

KAYLA: My current work is surfaced around documenting what is left of Black/ African American cultural heritage here in Boston, MA before gentrification. Neighborhood landmarks and businesses like barbershops and hair salons have been examples of inspiration for this project. My goal is to depict and record the historical arc of African American history in Boston in both paint and film mediums.

Do you have a preference for mediums?

KAYLA: My preferred medium is acrylic paint. I also love layering different mediums like paper, paint and marker to create texture.

How did “goldlemons” come about. What does it mean?

KAYLA: “When life gives you lemons paint them shits gold.” -atmosphere
It means to see ideas beyond their ordinaries.

Does Art run in your family or is it something that interested you on your own?

KAYLA: Both my parents are pretty artistic. My dad is a photographer, that can draw, sew, cut hair, play the drums, you name it. My mother has always been creative, she was an educator who continues to push my brother and I to think out side of the box. Although my parents discovered I had a love for art, I feel they’ve always pushed my talents by introducing me to new materials, and mediums . My grandmother (Dads mother ) is an artist, she’s an illustrator and watercolor painter. Growing up I had the luxury to I whiteness process and consistency first hand.

Have you had any artistic challenges since giving birth? How do you balance motherhood with making Art?

KAYLA: Id say the biggest challenge while being a full time mom and artist would be staying consistent. Making art while caring for a little one is very challenging, but not impossible. I create at nap time and bedtime.

What has changed since you started making Art?

KAYLA: I love taking onyx to the library to see books with vibrant colors and pictures, these library trips and toy store visits have influenced the way i use shapes and color.

When do you feel fulfillment as an artist?

KAYLA: I’m most fulfilled when a client sends me a photo of my work up on their walls. Anytime a piece of mine enters a new home or establishment, I feel a little piece of myself lives everywhere.

What kind of things are involved in your process in order to come to a finished painting?

KAYLA: A lot of my paintings start with me. Recording my reality, whether an object, person, place, or scene from an angle that interests me. I love to enhance features that speak to my composition and perspective. I won't feel a piece is finished until all of these factors have been captured.

How would you define risk taking as an artist?

KAYLA: Risk taking for an artist should mean not being afraid to fail, because you will, it’s a part of growth and development.