Nurturing Creativity: Embracing the Dual Roles of Motherhood and Artist

Elizabeth Catlett, Black Maternity, 1959

As a Black mother and an artist, I've come to realize that these two roles are not mutually exclusive, but rather beautifully intertwined in a dance of creativity, casual chaos and multiple varieties of nurturing. Balancing the demands of motherhood with the pursuit of artistic expression is a journey filled with challenges, but also immense rewards.
 
Motherhood has a way of igniting a fierce creativity within. From the moment a child is born, a mother's world is transformed into a canvas waiting to be painted with love, patience, and boundless imagination.
 
Yet amidst the chaos of parenthood, the artist persists, craving expression. Being a parent has not stopped my creative drive. During sleepless nights and endless chores, I steal moments to immerse myself in my craft, finding solace in the strokes of a paintbrush. I have a different intention around time, body and creativity as a[parent and this state is everchanging. There is always an adjustment. Being a mother has taught me the art of time management, seizing precious minutes, and turning them into moments of creative inspiration.
 
At times, the demands of motherhood may seem at odds with the intersections between my personal artistic pursuits, society, and parenthood. Motherhood has expanded my artistic vision, infusing my work with a depth of emotion and empathy born from the experiences of nurturing and sacrifice. My child has become my greatest muse, inspiring me to see the world anew through their eyes and to continue to aspire for my own future as their mother simultaneously. And the simultaneous part is important to me.
 
Being a mother and an artist is a delicate balancing act, requiring patience, resilience, and a willingness to embrace imperfection. As a Black mother, single parent, and someone with chronic pain; I have had to be even more aggressive with my creativity. This can be very difficult at times; especially when I literally must fight to be creative every day.
 
I have also been able to stay true to the little girl inside me that wanted to be an artist and model that to my child. I have fostered a creative atmosphere for my child to be raised in where they can experiment with their own expressions to where we can create together.
 
Advocating for artists who are also parents or caregivers is extremely important. I have learned that being a mother and an artist is not about achieving perfection, but about embracing the journey with an open heart and a curious mind. It is about finding inspiration in everyday moments and allowing creativity to flourish in all its ways.

Shout out to all the art mamas! We out here! Keep up the great work!

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