Have you ever met someone whose presence radiates warmth and wisdom? That's exactly how I felt when I talked with photographer Adrian Octavius Walker on Episode 111 of This is How We Create.
(A gentle note: We discuss the experience of loss in this episode.)
Adrian's work has been exhibited at the Smithsonian (!) and is collected by Amy Sherald (!!) but what struck me most was his beautiful perspective on balancing art and family life. Instead of thinking about what he's "giving up" to pursue his creative work, he talks about what he's "giving in" to - like scheduling early morning runs so he can spend quality time with his kids afterward.
Some favorite moments:
His journey from working at Pepsi to touring with Lupe Fiasco as a photographer (sometimes the biggest opportunities come when we least expect them!)
The amazing story of Steven Spielberg admiring his work at a gallery opening
His thoughtful approach to photographing Black life and finding beauty in everyday moments
How music shapes his creative practice (his playlist is coming soon!)
What about you? How do you balance your creative work with family life? Do you have any special routines that help you make space for both?
Three things you might enjoy:
Adrian's "We Matter" project featuring durags as cultural artifacts
This beautiful interview about Black photographers
A running playlist I made inspired by our conversation about movement and creativity
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Adrian Octavius Walker
03:02 Childhood and Early Influences
05:56 Navigating Grief and Loss
09:13 The Role of Photography in Healing
12:04 Transitioning to College and Career
14:57 The Journey of a Mixed Media Artist
17:46 Touring with Lupe Fiasco
21:09 Becoming a Photo Editor and Beyond
24:56 The Journey Begins: From Editing App to Career
29:20 Building a Community: The Power of Connections
34:37 Artistic Growth: Discovering My Voice
39:41 Collaboration and Self-Care: Balancing Life and Art
46:27 Advice to My Younger Self: Financial Wisdom and Mental Health
48:50 The Role of Music: A Creative Lifeline
Stay Creative,
Martine x
P.S. Next week we will talk about the guardian angels in our lives. Can't wait to share it with you!
Get to know Adrian Octavius Walker
Website: Adrian Octavius Walker
Follow on Instagram: Adrian
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Website: Martine Severin
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This is How We Create is produced by Martine Severin and edited by Santiago Cardona.
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