Muse Series ~ Frances Li
For our Muse series we'll be taking time to catch up with women who inspire us daily through their artwork, music, entrepreneurship, activism, design, etc. They are the movers and shakers of our time and are setting the bar high with their unique voice and vision.
Frances Li is an artist and actress living in Brooklyn, NY. After photographing her for our Spring 2018 collection, we wanted to take an afternoon to visit her home studio and learn more about her art practices and methodologies. We spent a sunny Saturday morning looking through her paintings, sharing a cup of coffee and taking a walk around her Bed-Stuy neighborhood. Check out our Q&A below to learn a bit more this talented lady!
Photography by Corey Jermaine
Where did you grow up, and when did you move to New York City?
I grew up in Oakland, CA. I moved to NYC 4 years ago after living in Portland, OR where I attended college.
How would you describe your work practice; how are you first inspired and how does that translate into your artwork?
My painting practice is currently a repetitive study of my houseplants. I've painted the same houseplant over a period of a few years, I render it in a line drawing and then try and abstract it with layers of color. I am most inspired by the natural world, but living in NYC doesn't necessarily lend itself to long walks through the forest. The limitations of the city have led me to this very condensed study of the natural world that I do have access to - my houseplant.
What music are you currently listening to?
Drake 'Nice For What'
Your website says that you can also help file taxes for freelancers and artists, is that true?! Please explain how you've gotten both sides of your brain to work in such harmony!
My father is a math teacher and my mom is a painter, I guess it just makes sense? There's something really satisfying about working on something that has absolutely nothing to do with my creative practice. It works your brain in different ways so that you end up feeling refreshed and renewed by the contrast in work.
How does clothing play a part in your creative work, and do comfort, ease or mobility play a role?
Clothing is another extension of our creativity. Comfort, ease and mobility are everything to me. I need clothing to feel effortless, there's something so amazing about clothing that just feels like it's a part of you. I think that like painting, or any other form of creative expression, clothing has such potential to produce joy in our everyday life. I guess that's what I'm trying to do with my houseplant, find joy in the everyday.
Learn more about Frances on her website and Instagram @frannnliii.
Hip - 37"
She wears a size X Small all pieces except the Azul Freya Top in S.
Shop Frances Li's story here!
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