Natalie TharraleosNatalie Tharraleos chats with Tyra, artist if the month for June
What inspires you to create your art?
My personal experiences inspire me, as they are unique and from my perspective. I am the only one who can fully communicate this artistically and that’s something I value.
I find artistic self expression fulfilling because often it’s more challenging for me to communicate my ideas and perspective through words. Mediums such as photography and painting, as well as styling allow me to be more dynamic.
Is there a medium you most enjoy using?
I enjoy using pencil to draw different designs and to lay out plans clearly. I’ve always drawn, so it’s a second nature to me.
Textiles and fabrics inspire me. I generally use sustainable fabrics- with them I feel I can better see the vision before its physically brought to life.
In addition to mix media art, I am a freelance stylist. So I curate outfits and looks for different clients and events. What makes styling challenging in particular is trying not to repeat combinations of different garments.
It’s important to me to create outfits and looks that feel unique and authentic to the person wearing them
Creating sustainably is important to me, so I source materials from local vendors and alternative places such as charity shops and various markets.
Where you do get the most support and encouragement from creatively?
Friends are really important for me, and right now I feel I have a support system who genuinely believe in my creative aspirations so even when I doubt myself I know I have like-minded people around me who will encourage me
Community members inspire me as they help me with my approach to things like networking, sourcing materials, projects and exhibitions to get involved in, which I appreciate because it can be difficult to navigate the creative industries without knowing someone who has done so prior to you.
Have you experienced any barriers, disadvantages, or any positive backing, as a young black female creative?
A barrier I experience is being made to feel I have to fit a box of expectations in the art I create, and I feel it’s harder as a black female creative to have the space and encouragement to express an alternative approach to artistic your endeavours. It’s always hard to push through those boundaries and not allow the opinion of others to replace your own.
How do you experience creating art in or with the communities of East Leeds?
Because there are so many young creatives in East Leeds, with such different art styles, it makes it a good space to bounce ideas off others, and expand your creative limitations.
How can readers see and experience your work?
I am selling clothing and jewellery at a few different events this year
Summer Festival dates:
* Saturday 22nd + Sunday 23rd June Afrika Oye Festival, a free weekend celevrating African music and culture in Liverpool
* Saturday 29th June
* Montserrat Heritage Day with Afrikan market. An indoor + outdoor event Chestnut Park + Chestnut Community Hall
St Ann’s Road
London N15 3AQ
* Sunday 25th August Black Music Event Potternewton Park, Chapeltown, Leeds
https://www.instagram.com/tyras_styling?igsh=Nmpwcjd2cnB6dzJp
Your message to others who want to make a living from, celebrate or share their creativity
Don’t be afraid to make the first step, if you struggle with motivation, as I do sometimes, you know that the first step is the hardest. But approach projects with the mindset that you can and will do a great job, because you achieve what you believe you can.
If you are a local artist who would like to feature in an East Side Story quick chat please get in touch
