Thinkspace is pleased to present Delisha ‘Sweet Dreams & Beautiful Nightmares.‘ The “BEAUTIFUL MONSTER” acts as a security blanket to help us navigate life’s problems and tune out the harshness of the world. It’s easier to tune out the judgement, the abuse, the neglect, and doubt while wrapped in the comfort of scarves. A BEAUTIFUL MONSTER manifested from a cold world, and is also a reminder to embrace fear, because you may find comfort in uncovering what’s really there.
Our interview with Delisha shares her rituals to stimulate her creative flow, her creative influences, and how she likes to enjoy her downtime.
What themes were you exploring in this body of work?
Mostly the idea of fear, the fear of individuality, the fear of another persons perception of you. I wanted to tell a story from three different perspectives; from the perspective of the viewer, the subjects in the paintings, and of the Beautiful Monster’s. The viewer sees a weird creepy thing, but inside the monster there’s an innocence there. The painting’s subjects ignore the Beautiful Monster all together.
Did you have a piece that was particularly challenging?
I feel the theme was more challenging. To create a monster that was fun but also a little creepy and weird, that really encapsulated the creative spirit was the most challenging. It definitely came from my own experiences with social anxiety of being called “different”.
What does a day in the studio look like for you?
A typical day in the studio, for me?
Lots and lots of work! I’m usually working on 4-5 projects at a time. Which is dope, because I remember a time when things weren’t as busy. But, a typical day is VERY focused from 9am-5pm.
How do you structure your days?
I’m learning to have 3 days in one day. I split my days in thirds so that I’m sure to have personal time, and to keep my interests on whatever I’m creating at that time.
Do you have any rituals that help you tap into a creative flow?
This answer goes back to timing and planning my days right. Personal time is very important to me so I’m usually up before the sun rises to meditate, medicate, and meal prep (make lunch for my daughter).
What is your most favorite and least favorite part of the creative process?
Showing my work is nerve wrecking. I get immortalized in my thoughts, so when I show to the public I’m wondering if they can feel what I felt, when making them.
Who are some of your creative influences?
Creators: Bill Watterson and Jim Henson
Artists: Frida Kahlo, Jean Mitchell Basquiat Photographers: James Van Der Zee and Annie Leibovitz.
Writers: Ayn Rand and Encyclopedias.
Why do they inspire you?
They inspire me for their passion. How they truly lived, and are living, through what they’ve created.
The encyclopedia has always been a staple, now that’s been replace with YouTube lol. Just as inspiring.
If you could have any skill or topic downloaded into your brain, what would you want to be able to do/ be an expert at?
Everything. I love learning new things/skills.
What do you hope viewers take away or experience while viewing your work?
A need to see more!
How do you like to enjoy your time outside of the studio?
Spending time with my daughter, with friends or dreaming.
Do you celebrate the completion of a body of work?
Sometimes. Sometimes the reward is to do nothing.
Exhibition on view April 1 – April 22, 2023 at:
Thinkspace Projects
4207 W. Jefferson Blvd.
Los Angeles, California 90016
