Local Gem: Laura Lewis
We love our girl Laura Lewis. She's an illustrator on a mission of self-love, whose use of poppy pastels, self-portraits and cartoon-style copy complements her sense of humor.
Photo by Laura Lewis
We love our girl Laura Lewis. She's an illustrator on a mission of self-love, whose use of poppy pastels, self-portraits and cartoon-style copy complements her sense of humor. As a full-time freelance artist, we sat down with Laura Lewis for some helpful tips on networking and becoming your own boss.
Q: What inspired you to start your business? Did you have any role models or learn from someone, in particular?
A: Freelance art started as a way for me to make some extra cash while I was working at a part-time job, and I’ve been slowly building my business ever since. After seeing so many friends and peers find success in making money with their art, I finally said, "Well, I have this marketable skill. How can I make money with this." It’s still a work in progress, but I’m inspired by my friends and fellow artists everyday.
Q: Do you have any tidbits of advice for people with passions, in general?
A: Get on Twitter. I don’t know why I fought it for so long! Social media makes it easier than ever to network and make connections, and I have been able to make friends with creators I’ve followed and admired for years.
The amazing thing about Twitter is that you can find the people that inspire you, and most of the artists/musicians/comedians/whatever that you look up to that are creating content today, especially young creators and peers, are already on there. With a simple 140-character tweet, you can chat with your favorite creators and build a network of people you admire. Finding a community of people online who are passionate about the same things, and who inspire you to always be better is so important for freelancers and creators these days—especially if you have any kind of creative passion or online business. I’m always floored when I can simply tweet to an artist I like and say, “Hey, I’m in LA this week, want to grab beers?”
It seriously makes it easier than ever to network.
Photo by Laura Lewis
Q: What have been your favorite moments of creativity?
A: They happen all the time! Sometimes in big ways, but usually they are small and often. I like to carry around a small notebook with me at all times, so I can write down whenever I get an idea or an image in my head, especially because I’m really forgetful. I find that if I warmup with a sketch or drawing that I’ve had in mind before I start my workday my creative flow seems more natural and less forced.
Q: What have been your most challenging moments in your career, thus far?
A: I’ve done tests for storyboarding jobs at studios and comic jobs that I didn’t get, and I’ve had a lot of job rejection this year. I’ve had feedback from companies that have said “Well we love your work, we wouldn’t change a thing,” but I still don’t get the job. Not getting discouraged from these rejections has easily been the biggest challenge. Get rejected! Get rejected a bunch!! Get discouraged! Pick yourself back up!
Building a steady client base has also been a key component that still challenges me. I love drawing and illustrating, but the business side doesn’t come as easily to me, and trying to find a balance between both can be tricky sometimes.
Photo by Laura Lewis
Q: What's your day job (if this business isn't your day job)?
A: I currently do freelance illustration full-time.
Q: When you're discouraged, what do you run to or away from?
A: I’ve been in the habit lately of running to myself when I’m discouraged. The only way to truly push through discouragement is to find your own source of strength and inspiration! Which isn’t always easy. Sometimes getting my mind off the source of whatever is discouraging me for a few days is super necessary to restore balance and determination.
Photo by Ashlee Jordan Pryor
Your favorite band at the moment: Yellow Magic Orchestra, Dead Recipe, Micachu & the Shapes
Your favorite book at the moment: "Starting Point," a collection of essays and interviews by Hayao Miyazaki
Your local Austin gem (can be a product, place, etc.): @catchtilly
Photo by Laura Lewis
Social media handles:
Follow Laura on Instagram or Twitter at @lorhsdraws or find Laura on Facebook.
Keep up with Laura's work here: lorhs.tumblr.com
I Feel Love: Photo Series by Diana Ascarrunz
Our photographer for our September fall retreat, Diana Ascarrunz, asked the women in attendance to share their "love stories," i.e. the moments they feel love or feel the most loved.
"I feel love when I stop to feel the whole world breathing." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
At our fall retreat (#bossbabesATX Wellness Retreat: Self-Care + Self-Love) at Stonehouse Villa, we spent a full day loving on ourselves. Our photographer for the event, Diana Ascarrunz, asked the women in attendance to share their "love stories," i.e. the moments they feel love or feel the most loved. Check out the answers below:
"I feel love when someone makes me laugh... including myself." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I find a feather." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I allow myself to." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel loved when I am surrounded by community." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when outside." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I fart." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I'm cooking dinner with my girlfriends." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel loved when I'm creative." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel loved when I speak mermaid with my daughter, Atlas." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I take the time to care for myself in nourishing ways." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I am with kindred spirits." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I am with my friends." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I'm with Subie." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I let go." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I'm surrounded by positive beings." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I give to others." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I'm around my friends." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel most loved when people love one another equally." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I connect." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I'm active." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel loved when I sit on my porch." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel loved when I teach yoga!" Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I can love myself and my accomplishments." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I'm with my dog." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I am free." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I'm surrounded by other awesome, passionate people." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I can share my experiences as a vegan." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I give love." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I help others." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel loved when I am surrounded by friends." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I speak my truth." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I meet awesome babes who are super nice and motivated." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I am teaching my students about art!" Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when people are real and honest with me." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel loved when I see the fruits of my labor—when I see people united FOR something, not against." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I write." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I create with others." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I am dirty with paint." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel loved when I'm heard." Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
"I feel love when I am... free!" Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
Check out more of Diana Ascarrunz' work on her website.
#sizecelebration: Divinity Veloz
#sizecelebration is a bossbabesATX series of photos and interviews, featuring women of different sizes in dressing rooms, proudly disrobing to dispel negative body image.
All photography by Stef Atkinson
#sizecelebration is a bossbabesATX series of photos and interviews, featuring women of different sizes in dressing rooms, proudly disrobing to dispel negative body image. These portraits were taken by Stef Atkinson, in conjunction with and in the dressing rooms of SoLa.
So, goodbye, fat-shaming. Goodbye, skinny-shaming. Toodles, crying in dressing rooms. We're done with you.
Meet Divinity Veloz, our second #sizecelebration model.
Q: What's your current occupation?
A: Stylist/model
Q: How old are you?
A: 28
Q: When did you first become aware of your own size? Was that a positive or negative experience?
A: At the age of 23. It was a positive experience; I realized that size didn't matter, and I looked good!
All photography by Stef Atkinson
Q: When did you first become aware of others' sizes?
A: In middle school, when bodies were changing—including mine.
Q: As you've grown, what have you determined to be true or untrue about size?
A: Size is just a number, not a feeling or a truth about how you should feel.
Q: How do you celebrate yourself?
A: I dress up for no reason.
All photography by Stef Atkinson
Q: How do you think the world (society, etc.) should change the way it celebrates beauty?
A: Things like this! Discussing body positivity with other amazing babes.
Q: What are some immediate, day-to-day things we can change in our lives to better appreciate our own unique bodies? As well as others'?
A: Look in the mirror, smile. Look at a stranger, smile. When you smile, how can you make anyone feel bad?
All photography by Stef Atkinson
Q: Why are you participating in this shoot?
A: As a woman who appreciated her body 23 years later, I don't want to stop celebrating!
Q: What does #sizecelebration mean to you?
A: Enjoying how different we all are and the beauty that's within.
All photography by Stef Atkinson
#bossbabesATX October 2015 Meet
Our sixth meet will be on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at Empire Control Room.
Flyer designed by Jasmine Brooks
There will not be any tickets sold at the door.
First and foremost, we ask that you please read our explanatory blog post that describes the meaning of #bossbabesatx and why we have chosen that name.
We are a series of meets and retreats to empower women in the creative industry in ATX. No matter how you identify as a woman, all are welcome.
We are an entirely local movement, specific to ATX, and are not affiliated with any online networks, magazines or media entities aside from these Internet properties:
bossbabes.org
@bossbabesatx on Twitter and Instagram
BossBabes ATX on Facebook
thebabegang.com
@thebabegang on Instagram
The Babe Gang on FB
@thebabegangATX on Twitter
All of our profits go toward supporting women in the community (through promotion, consultations, free workshops, recruitment), as well as our management costs and event costs. Our sixth meet will be on Sunday, October 25, 2015 at Empire Control Room.
SCHEDULE:
Doors at 6 PM — We will have nametags available for those who would like to wear their careers on their bosoms. Please use this time to sign up for Babe Announcements, if you are interested. Babe Announcements is an open-mic hour, where 50 babes have one minute to speak their truth, voice their passions, announce their businesses, request/give things to the community, etc.
Babe Announcements at 7 PM — Babes with things to say will have one minute to jump on an open mic and announce their projects and passions, possible collaborations, etc.
7:45 PM to 8:45 PM — MEETIN' AND A GREETIN'
VENDORS:
Zanny Adornments
Houndoggle
Mystic Mayhem
Tarot by Cholahontas
#sizecelebration: Pearl Matthewman
#sizecelebration is a bossbabesATX series of photos and interviews, featuring women of different sizes in dressing rooms, proudly disrobing to dispel negative body image. These portraits were taken by Stef Atkinson, in conjunction with and in the dressing rooms of SoLa (a body-positive boutique in Austin, Texas).
All photos by Stef Atkinson
#sizecelebration is a bossbabesATX series of photos and interviews, featuring women of different sizes in dressing rooms, proudly disrobing to dispel negative body image. These portraits were taken by Stef Atkinson, in conjunction with and in the dressing rooms of SoLa (a body-positive boutique in Austin, Texas).
So, goodbye, fat-shaming. Goodbye, skinny-shaming. Toodles, crying in dressing rooms. We're done with you.
Meet #sizecelebration model, No. 1: Pearl Matthewman.
All photos by Stef Atkinson
Q: What's your current occupation?
A: I've recently taken some time off to take care of myself. It's an opportunity that I'm grateful for.
Q: How old are you?
A: 28
Q: When did you first become aware of your own size? Was that a positive or negative experience?
A: It was pretty negative. It didn't happen when I was a little girl, or even a teenager. I was pretty unaware of my body until I was an adult, had moved to a new town and gotten married to my first husband.
He liked to eat as a coping mechanism; I ate what he ate. I gained 70 pounds, and one day I was looking in the mirror, trying to shove my body into a pencil skirt that had ended up in the dryer. I suddenly, for the first time, saw what had happened without me really even noticing. I was horrified. I was angry. Then, I was packing my bags. I'm happier now.
All photos by Stef Atkinson
Q: When did you first become aware of others' sizes?
A: I guess I've always been in on the whole magazines being photoshopped thing. I knew those girls weren't really that size on the cover of Teen Whatever. But I saw friends of mine trying to get there, and I'd look at their bodies and I remember thinking, "Wtf, dude, you're totally fine the way you are."
Q: As you've grown, what have you determined to be true or untrue about size?
A: I could literally go on forever on this. For one, just because someone is fat doesn't mean they are of any lesser intellect or self-control. And just because someone is thin doesn't mean they have an eating disorder or are sick in any way. Just because someone looks like the pillar of health doesn't mean they are. Just because someone looks like they have a problem with their health doesn't mean they do. Essentially, size means absolutely nothing about a person and their life.
Q: How do you celebrate yourself?
A: I remember reading a quote from Tess Holliday about wearing risky fashion choices. She said something along the lines of, "If you think your outfit is gonna piss somebody off, go on, girl. Wear it." I love that shit. I love celebrating my body by wearing things I'm told are taboo. Crop tops, see-through things, skirts that are way too short. I love getting dolled up and being the most well dressed—and fattest—girl in the room. It short-circuits people's brains, I think. Fat girls are told to cover up, to not be interested in fashion, because it's not made in their size. When you wear what you want without giving a damn about how others are going to perceive you, it gives you so much power.
All photos by Stef Atkinson
Q: How do you think the world (society, etc.) should change the way it celebrates beauty?
A: Quit pandering to women as if we don't have options. As if we're stuck with the mainstream and can't find other avenues to accept us. The body-positive community is real and big corporations are ignoring it, hoping their same old song and dance is going to keep working. Like, the Oprah crop-top scandal. Or the "Dear Fat People" video. That shit got crushed in less than 24 hours. All because there's a community out there that refuses to accept that what they have to offer is wrong. There is no acceptable body type or unacceptable body type.
Q: What are some immediate, day-to-day things we can change in our lives to better appreciate our own unique bodies? As well as others'?
A: The negative self-talk and judgment thoughts have got to go. We have got to stop hating on ourselves and turning around and hating others in the same breath. Like, hey, I'm a fat girl. I don't deserve to be judged. You're a skinny girl, and you don't deserve to be judged, either. Give yourself a break. Give others a break.
All photos by Stef Atkinson
Q: Why are you participating in this shoot?
A: Honestly, I'll never pass up an opportunity to get photographed in my skivvies. But really, I hope that I can inspire other girls that look like me to do the same. The longest relationship you're ever gonna have is with yourself. You might as well make it a good one.
Q: What does #sizecelebration mean to you?
A: To me, it means that no matter if you're straight-sized, plus-sized, somewhere in the middle, or whatever, that you can embrace your size and celebrate that no one on this cosmic, spinning rock is exactly the same as you.
Would you like to celebrate your size with us? Use the hashtag #sizecelebration on Instagram and Twitter to show us what celebrating your body means to you.
One of the Babes: Diana Ascarrunz
Did you love the photographs taken at the September #bossbabesATX retreat? So did we! They were captured by the amazingly talented Diana Ascarrunz. Check out her beautiful photography at www.dianascarrunz.com and learn more about this boss babe below in our Q&A.
Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
Did you love the photographs taken at the September #bossbabesATX retreat? So did we! They were captured by the amazingly talented Diana Ascarrunz. Check out her beautiful photography at www.dianascarrunz.com and learn more about this boss babe below in our Q&A.
Q: What inspired you to start working in photography? Did you have any role models or learn from someone, in particular?
A: Photography, for me, was one of those things that was always in the back of my mind. I always knew I’d do it, but I didn’t know when. Finally, I made the decision to study photography in school and found myself working as a graphic designer after graduation. After moving to Austin, I decided I needed to focus on what I love doing and what I’m good at.
Q: Do you have any tidbits of advice for people with passions, in general?
A: Don’t wait to do what you love. Do it your way! The time is now!
Q: What have been your favorite moments of creativity?
A: I’m really inspired when I’m learning something new. Sewing, screen-printing, canning vegetables, print making—the process of learning something new and creating something with your hands is a great feeling.
Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
Q: What have been your most challenging moments in your career, thus far?
A: Making the decision to have confidence and faith in myself to not go back my 9-to-5 job was a hard one. Also, opening myself up to wedding photography was scary, but it's also been so rewarding. I've already met so many amazing couples that I would have never know otherwise.
Q: What's your day job?
A: I’m a photographer full-time these days.
Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
Q: When you're discouraged, what do you run to or away from?
A: I usually run toward watching movies. It gives me time to gain perspective and get my mind off of my own self-doubt. There’s also something very relieving in seeing beautiful and well-composed cinematography.
Your favorite band: Kanye West’s "Graduation album" is still so amazing.
Photo by Diana Ascarrunz
Your favorite book: I’m not typically a comic book reader, but I recently picked up the third issue of Nutmeg, and it’s just great. If you’re a fan of Veronica Mars and baking, you’ll love it.
Your local Austin gem: Nicole Seligman of "Writes Like A Girl" blog is a true lady gem. The horchata latte aka El Equinox at El Tacorrido is my favorite Austin morning indulgence. Ladies, you don’t even have to get out of your car to get one!
10. Your social media handles: You can follow me on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.
Got A Babe Crush: A Got A Girl Crush X #bossbabesATX Pop-Up
Join us for an evening of zines, herbal cocktails by Botanicals Folklorica, tarot readings by Sarah Morningstar, sick raffles and beers in the Friends & Neighbors back yard!
Flyer by Lindsay Eyth of eythink
*This event is free and open to the public.*
The boss babes of Got A Girl Crush magazine are here from Brooklyn to celebrate their brand-new Issue 4 and Austin's own women-run publications.
Join us for an evening of zines, herbal cocktails by Botanicals Folklorica, tarot readings by Sarah Morningstar, sick raffles and beers in the Friends & Neighbors back yard!
VENDORS:
Got A Girl Crush
Peach Fuzz magazine
#bossbabesATX
Raffle ticket items to be announced. Proceeds from the raffle will benefit GEN, Girls Empowerment Network, Austin.
Surprises to come! See you there.
#bossbabesATX Wellness Retreat Recap Video by Sabrena Rexing Photography
We are so thankful to everyone who attended our first retreat at Stonehouse Villa. We are filled—with gratitude, with creative energy, with the good vibes of friendship and love.
We are so thankful to everyone who attended our first retreat at Stonehouse Villa. We are filled—with gratitude, with creative energy, with the good vibes of friendship and love.
To all of the vendors who made this event possible, we are here for you! Thank you for caring about this community.
Again, we cannot stress it enough how accommodating and helpful the staff at Stonehouse Villa (specifically Kristina Modares; we love you, girl) is. We could not have done this without them!
We'll be dropping photos on Facebook from the retreat soon, but for now, check out this compilation video by Sabrena Rexing Photography. Thanks for making this, babe!
One of the Babes: Coco Vargas with Chameleon Cold-Brew
Coco has been repping brands for the majority of her career, and she's been with Chameleon Cold-Brew from its inception as a start-up coffee brewery and brand.
Photo via Coco Vargas
Meet Coco Vargas, the Field Marketing Manager at Chameleon Cold-Brew. Coco has been repping brands for the majority of her career, and she's been with Chameleon Cold-Brew from its inception as a start-up coffee brewery and brand.
We're so happy to have her and Chameleon Cold-Brew at our retreat this weekend. She'll be there with some free coffee for everybody! Get to know Coco:
Q: What inspired you to start working in marketing? Did you have any role models or learn from someone, in particular?
A: I had quite a bit of experience with brand ambassador work which led me to a full-time position with Chameleon Cold-Brew. I love meeting people and working events so this line of work couldn’t been a better fit.
Q: Do you have any tidbits of advice for people with passions, in general?
A: Don’t give up, keep exploring your interests and strengths. Ask questions and surround yourself with people you admire. Remember, nobody has a clue what the hell they’re doing. We are all trying to figure it out. Sit still and focus on what you want. In the end, it’s all about your happiness—nobody else’s.
Photo via Coco Vargas
Q: What have been your favorite moments of creativity?
A: My boyfriend has taught me a bit of woodworking. My favorite project so far has been building a coffee table.
Q: What have been your most challenging moments in your career, thus far?
A: Working for a start-up, I've learned so much at my job. When I first started this position, there wasn't a process for anything. Learning quickly to take chances and seek advice from people who have experience was fundamental. Also, remember to reflect on how much I've grown professionally is challenging. I tend to be my worst enemy.
Photo via Coco Vargas
Q: When you're discouraged, what do you run to or away from?
A: I have to exercise. Major stress reliever.
Your favorite band: Cannons
Your favorite book: Lena Dunham’s book, "Not That Kind of Girl"
Your local Austin gem: BookPeople. I could spend all day there.
Your social media handles: Check out Chameleon Cold-Brew on Facebook or Instagram at @chameleoncoldbrew. Follow Coco personally on Instagram at @cocomariev.
#bossbabesATX ArtLuck Worshop
Some of you may be wondering, "What's an artluck?" Let us explain!
Flyer created by Faith Chonko
We're extremely thankful to all of those who have purchased a ticket and are planning to attend our #bossbabesATX ARTLUCK Fundraiser at West Elm on Sept. 27 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Some of you may be wondering, "What's an artluck?" Let us explain!
Although there will be complimentary sips and treats, an awesome photobooth and an address from our founder at the fundraiser, we wanted this event to align with our mission of collaboration and creativity. For this reason, we're encouraging all attendees to bring a piece of art (which includes anything from poetry to illustrations to paintings) to exchange with other attendees. When you walk into the fundraiser (and you have a piece of art), you will be given a number and your art will be assigned a number. In the middle of the fundraiser, you'll receive the piece of art that corresponds with the number you were given at the door.
We want to make sure everyone has a chance to participate, so we've collaborated with West Elm to bring a free night of making and creativity to all fundraiser ticketholders! On Sept. 25 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at West Elm, we'll have three artists on hand to help you make something to exchange at the fundraiser. All of the supplies have been donated on behalf of West Elm.
So, please! Join us, and bring a friend. All ticketholders receive a free plus-one. Remember, you need to RSVP to this event, as well as provide proof of a fundraiser ticket purchase to attend.
RESIDENT ARTISTS:
Annie Finkel — etsy.com/shop/annfinkelart
Faith Chonko — faithchonko.com
Ashton Guy — ashtonguy.com