Casha Doemland 8/4/19 Casha Doemland 8/4/19

Natasha Wilson

Fashion photographer Natasha Wilson has had a mutual passion for art & travel her entire life. Inspired by culture and each location’s color palette, she hopes her unique perspective flows vicariously through her photographs and transports the viewer into a dream-like world.

Name: Natasha Wilson

Current City: Los Angeles

Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona

Occupation: Photographer

Desert born and raised, fashion photographer Natasha Wilson has had a mutual passion for art & travel her entire life. Inspired by culture and each location’s color palette, she hopes her unique perspective flows vicariously through her photographs and transports the viewer into a dream-like world. Her process usually includes painting her own hues over her images and reducing the color palette to a cohesive blend of hues.

For starters, you're a remarkable photographer. What attracted you to the world of photography and how would you define your style?
When I was in high school I wanted to express myself through art. To be honest, I wasn't good at painting or drawing, definitely not good at math or science. When I was allowed to take film photography as a course, I finally felt like I was good at something. I could express myself the way I wanted to. I didn't take it seriously as a career, just something I liked to do. My mom was the one who opened the idea of photography school to me.

I think my style of photography is fine art and portraiture blended together. I really strive to make each photograph resemble a painting – a color palette, story and the feeling you get from looking at art pieces in a gallery.

Where/how do you seek inspiration for your projects?
I'm inspired by people who speak their truth and shine through individuality. I find a lot of faces, creatives and designers on Instagram that inspire me daily. I also gain a lot of inspiration from color theory and art mathematics (rule of thirds, etc). Tim Walker is one of my favorite portrait photographers and Sally Mann is a huge inspiration for capturing feeling and emotion through imagery. Lately, I've really been into photographers Jimmy Marble, Nadia Lee Cohen and Diane Villadsen. If I am starting with a project from scratch, it usually blooms from feeling or music I am listening to.

Out of all your breathtaking shoots, which has been your favorite and why?
I have tons of favorites, but the one that I thought of right away was my series titled 'The Rise of a Woman". The way our team came together (models, make up artists, and vintage clothing company) was so fluent. The timing of the shoot and the way everything happened (there were some hurdles to cross) seemed to be divine. I was so excited to share these images, and the feedback I got from them was incredible. I even heard a story of a girl being so inspired by the shoot, she went straight to Goodwill to try and find a similar suitcase to shoot with. The reaction and impact that comes with the photoshoot is my favorite part of any project.

What are your goals for photography moving forward?
One of my goals this year is to start creating more personal projects with impact and feeling. I want to inspire and uplift the community through art. I also want to print more of my work, whether that's through a store or billboards, seeing your photographs in print makes them so much more real!

Do you have any other projects/collaborations on the books you'd like the readers to know about?
I have an incredible project I am super excited about releasing February 14th, Valentine's Day! I directed a music video for Ecstatic Union's song Desert Queen. We shot at White Sands, and the whole video is otherworldly!

Walk us through how you balance your personal and professional life.
That one's tough! I think I work longer days and hours than the average 9-5 person. But I love every minute of what I do. I think it balances out in the end because I get to be my own boss, and make my own schedule, but that also means I am usually working on my vacations. I wouldn't have it any other way though. If I'm not shooting, I start to feel uneasy and want to create more. My boyfriend and friends see that passion fueling me and their support is what keeps me going.

Where is your favorite place to escape and clear your head?
I think my favorite place to escape is in books. I love reading motivational and spiritual books. Lately, I've been reading Be Here Now, Do It Yourself Guide To Beating the Motherfucking Sad, How To Be Alive, and anything by Eckhart Tolle! I also escape by listening to these on audiobooks in the car!

Discuss the importance of female friendships in your life.
I have truly been feeling so thankful for the female friends in my life as of late. Every month my closest girlfriends and I get together for the full moon (Moon Goddess Night) and we write down aspirations and goals for the month, draw tarot cards and talk about things we have been struggling with, drink wine and eat cheese! I feel so refreshed after those nights. The trust between women and how we can uplift each other is so special.

Who are some of your greatest influences?
I think this goes hand in hand with the previous question, 'How do you find inspiration for your projects'. I am influenced by people trying to make a difference and speaking their truth to the world. Another example: Hailey Wait (@pigss) on Instagram is an incredibly inspirational advocate for being comfortable in your own skin. She is a brilliant artist and is changing the beauty standards through activism! Check her out!

If you could have dinner with any woman in history, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Frida Khalo!! I've always been so inspired by her words, her paintings and her determination to change the way people think.

What are you grateful for?
Everything in my life! No really, I can't believe how lucky I am to be able to do what I love for a living. I have an amazing support system, and I am my own boss! I've learned from my past and my history is what brought me here. I wouldn't have it any other way!

Quote to live by?
A tiny excerpt from Invictus by William Ernest Henley: I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul.

To view more from Natasha, check our her Portfolio and Instagram.

Casha Doemland 8/4/19 Casha Doemland 8/4/19

Cori James

Cori James is a passionate artist and aspiring triathlete trying to conquer the world one day at a time by pushing herself both creatively and physically as often as possible.

Name: Cori James

Current City: Atlanta, GA

Hometown: Macon/ Forsyth, GA

Occupation: Tattooer

"Georgia born and raised, I am a passionate artist and aspiring triathlete trying to conquer my world one day at a time by pushing myself both creatively and physically as often as possible. I love spending time and having fun with my partner, Jason, and our pets Gus (cat) and Beni (dog). I'm a total Netflix/ TV show fiend. I get super invested in just about every character (Damn you, Game of Thrones!) and even though I'm super active, training 6 days a week for a triathlon, I LOVE sitting on my ass and binge watching my favorite shows…and then rewatching them immediately. Movies too. Additionally, I love reading inspiring books...which I will then buy for all of my friends and talk about constantly. I just love feeling inspired and feeling good and want to share that with the folks I love. Overall, I'm just a homebody triathlete who tattoos. Ha!"

What attracted you to the art of tattooing and how would you describe your style?
My fascination with tattoos started at a pretty young age - I was probably 13 or 14 when I started asking my mom if I could get one. Thankfully she said "Nah" or else I might be covered in tribal, barbed wire and god knows what else. I was drawn to the rebellion of tattoos, I guess. The idea that they made you different. Unique. I've always been a pretty all-or-nothing kinda gal, so I knew I wanted to have lots of tattoos. I also loved the idea of breaking the mold of what being tattooed meant. I grew up in a small town which can lead to some pretty close-minded views, and people would tell me I'd never get a job if I got tattooed. That I'd look unprofessional. Blah blah blah. You know, the stuff your grandparents might say. Not mine, though. My grandparents are rad. Anyway, that just stoked my little rebellious fire even more. I wanted to prove that having tattoos doesn't actually make you a bad person…DUH.

I had wanted to be a veterinarian growing up, but when my interest in tattoos began, my love for art and my distaste for school took precedence over living the animal doc life. I was intrigued by tattoos, wanted lots, and thought…well if I make it my job I can get as many as I want! And so my little journey into becoming a tattooer began. I graduated high school, moved to the big city of Atlanta, and managed to wiggle my way into an apprenticeship in 2011 and did my first tattoo about a year later. 5 years in and loving it!

I was always drawn to traditional tattooing - the old school stuff that has been cool since the early 1900s. I love the style's longevity and history. The more I learned about the process of tattooing, the more I loved traditional for its bold lines, bright colors and the idea of doing tattoos in a way that looked great and aged well. It's the style that always suited my abilities as an artist and I've been able to make my own version of it over time. Developing my own style came with time and it's pretty amazing and humbling to know that people are into it and want it on them permanently. Pretty wild! So, overall, I'd say I'm a traditional tattooer with my own little spin on it.

Off the top of your head, what are a couple of your favorite pieces to work on?
Cats, anything Harry Potter related, roses, peaches…well just anything someone says "Do it the way you want. Do it in your style." Thaaaat's the best!

You recently left Live Free Tattoo after five years to work at a brand new space called Sparrow Hawk ATL. Tell us about the transition and why you chose to hop shops.
Live Free was the first shop I ever tattooed at full time. I will forever be grateful for that opportunity and the years I spent there learning from some of the best. However, after 5 years of growth, Live Free reached a point where I felt like it was time to spread my wings. The transition from LF was so smooth and wonderful. My Live Free fam was supportive and kind and I can't thank them enough for that.

Leaving Live Free, I knew I really wanted an environment that worked best for me creatively: bright, open, relaxing and a potential shift for new clients. I also wanted it to be viewed as a feminist space - that was key. Tattooing is a very male-dominated industry and lots of shops are still male-dominated spaces. The times they are-a-changin' though and that's exciting. The owner of SparrowHawk, Amy Bransford, and I met and immediately knew we could create a space that Atlanta hadn't seen before. Not another tattoo shop, but a studio space where artists of all kinds can come and create in a calmer, softer environment. That's the best way I know how to describe it. We wanted to break the idealized mold of where someone could tattoo and what the tattoo industry looks like. Cue in a female dominant space where everyone feels welcome and relaxed. Some people have asked if guys are allowed...Of course, guys are allowed! That's the whole point of feminism, in our view. INCLUSIVITY. So, to the fellas who are coming to SH and supporting a feminist space, I love you and you are a huge part of our future! And to the powerful women showing support and love, THANK YOU.

When you're not creating art, you're training/participating in triathlons. How did you fall into that world and what do you love about it?
I'll try not to be too long winded with this part and make a long story short. Haha. So, I was an athlete growing up, soccer and cross country, though not a very motivated one. I was competitive and liked the social aspect of hanging out with friends…and I had way too much energy all the time so it needed to go somewhere. I loved it, but wasn't super into the whole training part. I just wanted to play.

When I graduated high school and started my short stint at college, I got good and lazy and well..gained some weight. Not a whole lot, but like most human teenage people, I was extremely insecure, self-conscious and had always hated my body; this led to an eating disorder that wrecked my life and body for a number of years. I was 19 or 20 when my eating disorder started to include working out like a crazy person and running my ass off (literally) while eating little to no food. I was sick, real sick, and had turned running, something I once loved, into nothing more than a means to an end. However, in 2012/13 I hit rock bottom and finally caught a real glimpse of what I was doing to myself. I needed to begin the healing process, which I knew would take a long time, and I needed to start now. A client of mine ended up recommending a book to me, just by chance, that would change my life. A Life Without Limits by Chrissie Wellington- a mega badass and 4-time Ironman World Champion, the longest kind of triathlon you can do with 140.6 miles split between swim, bike, and run. She had suffered from an eating disorder when she was young and kicked that shit's ass to become a total beast of an athlete - my dream. I immediately knew I wanted to become a triathlete and I wanted to do it right. I wanted to become healthy and strong. Triathlons saved my life, really. I was slowly killing myself, but my desire for strength and health took over finally. I hired a coach, joined Atlanta Tri Club (BEST IDEA EVER-MY TRI FAM RULES) and started the long process of recovery. Now, I swim, bike, run, eat, and get stronger every day. I no longer check the scale for my weight, I check my splits to see if I've gotten faster and holy shit, is that a good feeling or what?? I absolutely love training and racing triathlon.

Let's dive into the future, describe your dream life?
Ooooo dream life? Hmm…I'm going big here. I see myself living in Boulder, CO in a doooooope midcentury mountain home, tattooing and owning my own triathlon apparel brand. And I own 20 well-mannered goats to go along with our normal pets.

Discuss the importance of female friendships in your life.
Is there even a way for me to put this into words? Wow. The ladies I have in my life are just…AMAZING. INSPIRING. UPLIFTING. INCREDIBLE. I could go on for days.
I didn't always have an abundance of close female friendships. Actually, I had a tendency to have mostly male friends growing up. I don't think it was until I started tattooing and grew up a bit, that I realized how truly important my female friendships had become. I am so incredibly grateful for the women who surround me. I feed off of their positivity, their badassery, their determination, so many things. I don't know what I'd do without them, honestly.

Who are some of your greatest influences?
My Mom. She is a powerful force even though she hides it under her kind eyes and sweet smile. She taught me from a young age to be independent and to not take shit, but to also know when to empathize and tone it down. She's my biggest inspiration and always will be. The overall support from both of my parents has been such a huge part of my growth as a person. They're the best.

My best friend, Becca Scott, is my forever hero. She has inspired me since the day we met and seeing her take the leap to work for herself gave me the courage to do so as well. Not to mention she's the funniest and most awesome person ever.

Charlie Graham, my angel in Memphis, is a constant inspiration in my life. She knows how to brighten my day with kindness and smiles, but will also light a fire under my ass and cut the crap when I need it. She's a go-getter and an influence to literally everyone she comes in contact with. She's so rad it's stupid.

This list could go on for days so I'm gonna stop here before I try and include 80 people.

If you could have dinner with any woman in history, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Elizabeth Warren. She is a ball of fire and so unafraid to speak her mind. That woman, y'all, she's kicking ass.

What are you grateful for?
So so many things. My partner, Jason. My amazing family and friends. My ability to tattoo. My ability to be a triathlete. Mountains. Fall weather. Books. Stranger Things. SOOOOO many things.

Quote to live by:
"There's nothing as unstoppable as a freight train full of fuck-yeah."
-You are a Badass- Jen Sincero- one of the inspiring books I'm obsessed with/ am buying all of my friends.

To follow Cori's tattoo journey, peep her Website or Instagram or dive into her triathlon world here.

Casha Doemland 8/4/19 Casha Doemland 8/4/19

Gabriela Herstik

Gabriela Herstik is a Los Angeles-based freelance writer, witch and author whose first book launched March 2018.

Photographer: Alexandra Herstik Wearing: @forgottenfeathervtg and @crystalxcactus — Photographer: Alexandra Herstik
Wearing: @forgottenfeathervtg and @crystalxcactus

Name: Gabriela Herstik

Current City: Los Angeles

Hometown: Atlanta

Occupation: Writer, Author, Alien & Witch

I’m first generation American, with a father from Israel and a mother from Mexico City (who grew up in the cities Jewish community.) My dad’s a rabbi and I grew up in Atlanta, although I was born in San Diego and lived in LA until I was 6. I decided I wanted to be a fashion writer when I was 14, and went to college for fashion writing, and earned a BS in fashion merchandising with a minor in print journalism from the University of South Carolina. When I was in school I interned with a few different magazines like Deux Hommes and MOD, studied abroad and went to London College of Fashion, went to London Fashion Week as press, interned for Rick Owens and started to freelance for different sites. After graduating in May 2016, I moved back to LA for a PR internship with Vivienne Westwood (my favorite designer/ icon/ queen) at their US Corporate Office. I started working at HelloGiggles full time about five months later, as their Latinx Culture Writer (and part-time astro/ witch kween.) I freelance for publications like i-D, NYLON, Sabat Magazine, Fashionista and more, and I have a monthly column on NYLON called “Ask A Witch” which is exactly what it sounds like. I’ve been a practicing witch for twelve years, and have managed to merge it into my love for writing and fashion. My first book “Craft: How To Be A Modern Witch” will be released in March 2018, with Ebury Random House.

At what age did you discover your passion for writing?
Probably around the second grade, when I realized I really liked my class’s monthly writing challenges.

Who are some of your favorite authors/writers/poets?
I’m a John Steinbeck fan. He’s my favorite author; he speaks to my California soul. He’s a Pisces Sun and Scorpio Moon (and I’m also a Scorpio Moon)! I love the depth in which he creates characters; they’re always so wise and represent such an insightful lesson. I think he’s secretly a witch! I love Starhawk, Sylvia Plath, Walt Whitman, George Orwell, Ray Bradbury…

I understand you're in the works of publishing your first book, can you tell us a little bit about it and the process involved?
Yes I am! It’s been an interesting process. I was approached to write this book by my editor at Ebury, so then I found an agent, and we negotiated the contract. I’ve been writing this baby since June, and I work on the weekends and after work during the week. It’s been long and laborious and scary and exciting and terrifying and exhilarating. I am very honored to be able to share this practice, and I wouldn’t be here without all the wo/men before me who have allowed me to speak freely about being a witch. Writing this book is in honor of them.

Photographer: Alexandra Herstik Lingerie: @forgottenfeathervtg — Photographer: Alexandra Herstik
Lingerie: @forgottenfeathervtg

How does it feel to be the Witch Carrie Bradshaw of LA and when did your interest for magick, style and glamour begin?
Well that’s a self-proclaimed title, haha. But I feel like it fits. I’ve been interested in spirituality since I was little, thanks to my mom and her crystals/ energy/ yoga..etc. I’ve been into fashion since I was 14, but these worlds didn’t collide until college. I started writing about how the Death Card (in the tarot deck) inspired my style and I did a series of looks on my blog based around tarot cards. I come from seamstresses and weavers on both side, and my grandma survived three years of concentration camps because she had the same name as the seamstress’s niece, and could actually sew. Now I write about all fashion, glamour and witchcraft and incorporate them into my own magical work.

What are some challenges you’ve hit at this point in your career and how do you navigate through each?
Being scared of using my voice has been a big one. Going to therapy, journaling, my spiritual practice, art and my family and friends have helped me. Learning to have confidence in my voice has been vital.

Let's dive into the future, describe your best life?
Creating art, practicing deep rituals and ceremony, supporting other women and femmes, writing and sharing my witchy heart, leading people to a deeper part of themselves through ritual, magick, glamour and adornment. Wearing Vivienne Westwood, having a freshly shaved head, falling madly in love, and having enough abundance to help others, traveling the world and creating magick every day.

What does women empowerment mean to you?
It means everything. It means love, support, community, sharing, and encouraging. More than anything it means supporting other women.

Discuss the importance of female friendships in your life.
All my closest friends have always been women. The women in my life are my sister's friends, my coven, my healers, my mirrors, my life. They are why I do what I do and why I find such joy in living. Female friendships that truly support and empower one another are life-changing, and they’re the only friendships I’m a part of.

If you could have dinner with any woman in history, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Vivienne Westwood. She’s my icon, a legend and an inspiration. She uses fashion to send a message and make a difference, which has been my goal since I was 14. I love her and her clothing and I can’t wait to meet her one day.

What/who are you grateful for?
My family and friends, the universe, the abundance of love I have, the opportunities I have. I’m thankful for all the good parts of this country, and for all the bad parts can teach me and push me to be a better person. I’m grateful for the moon, for flowers, for my therapist, for plaid, for coffee, for my darkness, for love, for sex, for the sun, for swimming naked, for long baths, for crystals, for magick, for a healthy and loving body, for words…

Quote to live by?
“The universe is working in my highest favor” and “All of them were caught in something larger than themselves” from The Grapes of Wrath.

To view more from Gabriela, you can visit her website and Instagram.

Casha Doemland 8/4/19 Casha Doemland 8/4/19

Christine Verzosa Delostrinos

Christine Verzosa Delostrinos is founder of the inspiring non-profit Lightwork.

Name: Christine Verzosa Delostrinos

Current City: Los Angeles, California

Hometown: East Bay Area!!! California

Occupation: City Planner Monday through Thursday and Founder of Lightwork every day.

In a few sentences, tell us a little bit about yourself?
Growing up, I wanted to be Pocahontas in Disneyland, singing on stage and entertaining people. I loved the joy it brought me and always saw how happy everyone else in the audience was - there was something magical in it. I took that little piece of magic and brought it to other things. I grew up interested in communities and how function, policy and infrastructure can influence our community and its built environment. Mix that with my passion for justice and equality, which should really be seen as my passion for humanity, and that's how I found myself in urban planning. After my 40+ hour work weeks, I sprinkle in my passion for immediate community outreach through Lightwork, a platform that serendipitously began in aims to focus on empowering communities, and more importantly one another. In between all of that, I have a little tortoise named Chingon AKA Chingy. I encourage everyone to drink a gallon of water a day! I love love love my family (including my friends who are my family), my Filipino culture and the Bay Area which I believe is why my heart is the way my heart is. And I love joy, whether I bring it, you bring it, a slice of bomb ass cheese pizza brings it, I believe that there is a little light in everything (not to sound cheesy… whoaaa, double cheese).

What is the origin story of Lightwork?
I always wanted to start a non-profit, but I saw it as my retirement project for when I am old and have "more time" or I wanted to be more involved in an organization that I truly believed in, as I would always volunteer in various organizations. Lightwork began a year ago on a bus ride back from the Bay Area going to Los Angeles. I was experiencing a multitude of heartbreaks. I found myself in tears praying to God asking Him what I can do to not feel this way and what I can do to prevent anyone else from feeling this way. I realized there are many individuals who felt the pain I felt and who were in far worse circumstances. By the time I hit Grapevine, a couple hours before Los Angeles, I started texting a bunch of friends to meet at my house that Saturday to make peanut-butter and jelly sandwiches for individuals on Skid Row. I knew that was the only thing that would fuel my fire at that time. Once I hit Union Station in Downtown LA it became an idea to give a bag filled with essentials and a lunch to homeless women* on Skid Row. After that first project, Lightwork literally became light-work and sparked all the following projects.

You've recently launched a fundraiser to help a women's shelter in Brooklyn. Tell us a little about the process and why you chose to launch Brooklyn next?
Lightwork’s process in choosing projects or communities is pretty organic. There is this saying that I truly live by and it goes as follows, “Go where your spirit is compelled and have faith in it!” And that is honestly what Lightwork has been doing. Each project is sparked by friends and even strangers who have become friends who reach out to me and feel compelled to help and do something in their community. And I am all ears and heart!

Lightwork’s Brooklyn project is part of a series that is taking place until the end of the year. To end 2017 we are doing events focusing on Brooklyn, New York, Puebla, Mexico, Oakland, California, and Puerto Rico. Each of these were sparked by people I know. And I think that’s the unique aspect of Lightwork, is it is "grassroots" or that "mom and pop" restaurant that you know and feels like your home. Lightwork is a collective of friends and of individuals who have joined forces all with the mission to serve. Everyone I work with are people I know but are now sharing a different experience with the world of giving back. It’s truly magic.

Specifically for Brooklyn, it truly started with an Instagram DM which turned into a phone call and couple text messages back and forth to now a living room full of donations for women in Brooklyn. Shout out to Paulina Singer sliding in the DM’s - that is truly how these projects come into play, it's sparked conversations. Paulina came to Lightwork with the spirit to aid women in her community, as she resides in Brooklyn.

Lightwork’s mission is to spark light, to empower communities and one another, an all-inclusive focus. One day it can be for women the next day it can be for tortoises. The point is that we all got love and light, and our purpose is to share it and enable it in one another. Raising awareness in the value of the people and things that surround us.

Are there any other events/causes/collaborations you'd like the readers to know about?
To end 2017 and as Lightwork’s ‘One Year’ we are ending things with a series of projects focusing on:

Brooklyn, New York
+Providing Light Essential bags to the women of 85 Lexington Avenue Women’s Shelter

Puebla, Mexico
+Providing essential items to those affected by the earthquake that recently happened

Puerto Rico
+A benefit show with The Listening, which is a collective of poets and artists, that is happening November 5 in Virginia. Cash donations will be donated to World Help organization who is aiding those affected by Hurricane Irma

Oakland, California
+A collaboration with a local salon in Oakland to give elderly a sense of empowerment through a haircut and a little makeover and dinner during the Thanksgiving Holiday.

All the information is on the website, and you can learn how to join in on the fun!

What are some challenges you’ve hit at this point in your career and how do you navigate through them?
Some challenges I have experienced at this point of my career are organization, work-life balance and being able to know that I am "on time".

Organization. My brain runs on one hundred most of the time. Having multiple ideas and things on my mind with the added action of execution of making things happen, I always have trouble with organization and being able to delegate tasks. So I am currently working on that. I have two notebooks; a general daily notebook which I write my To-Do Lists and Present Thoughts and Ideas so I never forget them and cross them off. A good practice I am trying to maintain is to be more present and self-aware, so writing all my thoughts down is super beneficial. Then I have another notebook/agenda to make sure I know when things are and to keep chronological track of everything going on.

Work-life balance. I believe we all struggle with this. My work has definitely spilled over into my life. Between my day job and Lightwork, I am basically working all the time. It's a good and a bad thing. It's good in the sense that I feel like all of my conversations about helping people, which is pretty amazing. Yet "bad" in the sense that I end up over thinking about all the things I need to and forget to take a break. How am I navigating through that? Still working on it, but definitely learning how to be more present and take some time for self-care. So I’ve made it a goal to do something for myself every week. Whether that is visiting my family or friends on the weekends, going to eat a yummy meal or listening to jazz… I always need to go to yoga and drink a least a gallon of water, but things like that. Setting time aside to focus on making YOU happy.

I think a combination of the two leads to the on-time trivial phrase we all face as well. Being able to be confident in where we are in life and knowing that ‘we are where we need to be at this moment.’ I have learned a lot about that this past year. I am my biggest enemy and my biggest competitor etc. So, when I don’t reach a personal vision in my head, I definitely give myself the hardest time. But I have come to learn that "everything little thing is [truly] going to be alright". Bob Marley really did have it figured out. So, anytime I find myself in the dirt about things, I write down how I feel in my notebook followed by at least three things that I have accomplished, whether that is reaching this ripe old age or even just brushing my teeth. It really reflects our blessings and our courage to go as far as we are going and are made to go. Also, it reminds us that everything is part of this bigger picture.

Let's dive into the future, what are your aspirations moving forward?
My aspiration for the future is to have Lightwork be a real organization with programs that give people skills and facilitate their needs. My mantra right now is "Let’s not waste lives and things!" There are a lot of lives out there and I want to help each find their purpose, whether it's being a chef, a painter or a lawyer. I feel like many individuals don’t know their purpose because they are under circumstances that don’t elevate them to see it. Things meaning waste. We live in a world where we waste a lot of things such as food and textiles/clothes. So I inspire to incorporate a sustainable, best practices dimension in the programming where we can help alleviate waste. So far the fruits and food items used for Lightwork projects are gathered from produce markets/stores that sell or donate items that need to be consumed within the next week. Additionally, the clothes and pillows etc. are donated by companies that typically throw the item away due to a minor defect such as a misprint or a wrong color print. Lightwork collects the items and gives them to individuals in need. In all, I want Lightwork to continue to be a spark of light just like what Tupac said, “I'm not saying I'm gonna change the world, but I guarantee that I will spark the brain that will change the world.”

If you could give one piece of advice to your 12-year-old self, what would it be and why?
I don’t even remember what I was thinking when I was 12, but I do remember what I would tell my little sister all the time when she was younger, and even to this day. I started to tell myself and everyone too, to always look in the mirror and tell yourself "You are the best thing that this world has to offer!" Never let anyone make you feel less than that, and the moment you do feel less is the moment you walk away. Stay close to the things that give you pure joy and happiness, and make you feel like you are worth a million bucks. That confidence and inner-joy and peace will take you places no one, no money and no thing can you.

Discuss the importance of female friendships in your life.
Female friendships are important. I am super thankful for all the strong females in my life. I definitely have a lot of them. They are all influential in their unique ways. We, as in myself and all the beautiful females in my life, are like an army! I feel empowered every time we spend time with one another, whether it’s one on one or we are together as a collective. I don’t know where I would be without the women in my life, from family members to my friends who are family. Females are the most powerful beings on this Earth, so of course when we all get together magic happens! It’s a movement!

Who are some of your greatest influences?
Definitely my parents! My mom and dad taught me a lot. My mom is probably the most selfless person I know with the biggest heart. My dad is probably the most curious person I know with a mind seeking infinite questions and answers. Together they are a unit that exemplifies hard work, dedication and compassion.

My Lola Baby. My Lola Baby believes in me so much and I always wonder why. Her ability to do anything she puts her heart into is amazing and she does it all in the joy of serving others. The list can go on and on, I believe that I am truly a reflection of everyone that has walked through my life as cheesy as that sounds.

If you could have dinner with any woman in history, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
I would have dinner with my Lola Ting, and probably all the women in my ancestry and ask them everything! From what their favorite dish to cook is to their most wild adventure to what to do on a first date. My Lola Ting is my great grandmother on my father’s side. From what I remember, she was the most spirited lady I had ever met when I was a kid. She would tell the wildest stories and I remember everyone laughing all the time. She had this story about the crooked man, with a crooked dog who lived on a crooked street (which was Lombard Street in San Francisco) and I remember thinking this woman is crazy! But that was what was beautiful - her presence brought everyone joy. I would love to be able to sit down with her and ask her so many questions about her life.

What are you grateful for?
I am grateful to God. I am grateful for life. I am grateful for my family and friends. I am grateful for all the experiences that I have been through and am bound to go through. I am grateful for everyone who makes Lightwork possible. I just want to continue to be grateful and happy to be here.

Quote to live by:
Go where your spirit is compelled! And have faith in it. Where we think fear is pushing, love is pulling.

To learn more about Lightwork, peep the Website, Facebook or Instagram. To follow Christine's personal adventures, peep her Instagram.

Casha Doemland 8/4/19 Casha Doemland 8/4/19

Jaclyn Mundy

Jaclyn (also known as Jackie or Jax) Mundy is a multi-passionate woman who thrives off working face to face with humans.

Name: Jaclyn Mundy

Current City: Los Angeles, CA

Hometown: Corona, CA

Occupation: Event and Experience Coordinator

California born and bred, Jaclyn (also known as Jackie or Jax) Mundy is a multi-passionate woman who thrives off working face to face with humans. "Whether it’s creating a synchronized swimming performance, sending a bride down the aisle, or getting the logistics set for a big interior design project I believe my secret superpower is empathy. Seeing where people are at and finding the root of the problem then fix it."

Growing up in the Inland Empire, she fell in love with synchronized swimming as a way to cultivate creativity and exercise. Jax created a family with the girls on her club synchro team and continued to follow her passion at Ohio State. From there, she performed with Royal Caribbean in their Aqua Show and throughout Los Angeles as on-screen talent.

Now, she's rocking several hats and thriving. Peep the interview below to learn more!

You truly are the definition of multi-passionate between, synchronized swimming, event coordinating and accounting/business operations. What attracted you to each trade?
I think of my career path as a puzzle that all kind of fits together rather than a linear timeline.

I’ve always been a synchronized swimmer, jumping in a pool and moving to music is something that I’ll probably be doing consistently forever. Performing as well as coaching the next generation of swimmers is a true love of mine.

I discovered Event Coordinators while performing at a synchronized swimming events around LA. I remember looking up from the pool at the women in charge and realizing, I wanted her job. I started interning with companies I admired for a while before starting to create my own events. I fell in love with the creativity involved in it. At weddings specifically, there's only so much you can plan and the rest is improv. The emotion and risk it takes to give a couple a wedding they've dreamed of is so risky and equally rewarding.

Accounting and business operations started when I realized it was a skill I lacked in my work. I didn’t know enough to be a business owner so I applied for a job in the accounting department at Michael Smith Inc, interior design firm. As a type-B personality raised by a type-A family, I realized I could offer creative solutions to the accounting department. I also realized design and creating a memorable space is an art that overlaps with all my passions.

I try to figure out what I'm curious about and try it out. This method will definitely humble you because it's not the easiest path, but it's created a pretty interesting picture.

We understand you've traveled internationally for synchronized swimming, what's your fondest experience thus far?
My experience swimming with Aquabatix in Abu Dhabi, UAE definitely is the one that stands out - it was the most spontaneous thing I’ve ever done. Two weeks after making a joke about wanting to join my friend that was performing out there already, I found myself on a plane to the Middle East.

We performed underwater, which is basically the opposite of all synchro I've done before, and the audience viewed the show through a piece of glass. I had to retrain my thinking completely.

Also, as an American women used to wearing/doing what I wanted, working in a country where that wasn't necessarily allowed was interesting. It wasn't something that made feel disrespected, but more look at it all with a new perspective. I was only out there for six weeks, but it was the most significant experience I've had thus far.

What are some challenges you’ve hit at this point in your career and how do you navigate through them?
I think most of us (working women) have imposter syndrome. Outside challenges aren’t usually the issue, it’s my attitude towards them that is the real challenge. I usually try to ignore it and push through but what helps me the most is to share with my community. It helps me get past the hurdle and start creating again. Every time I start doubting myself, I make sure to check in with my people and gain some of my confidence back. My people are what help me feel like Wonder Woman again.

What motivates you in the morning? Do you have a morning routine?
Naturally, I’m a night owl, but what gets me going is coffee in a cute mug and knowing I get to create something really cool; that helps to get my juices flowing.

If you give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be and why?
I would tell my younger self to take this time and really grow to love yourself. I spent a lot of my teenage years trying to keep up and compared myself to everyone around me. I spent most of my 20s trying to undo that way of thinking. It's so important to be brave and successful as an adult trying to make it.

Photo courtesy of @sayidotodetails_jaclyn

Discuss the importance of female friendships in your life.
Female friendships are the most important thing in my life. In synchro, you have a team of 8 girls you train with day in and day out. You learn to anticipate their every move to be synchronized and discover really quickly that no matter the differences between each one of you, you’re all showing up to create some magic. The girls I grew up swimming with are now my biggest assets. I can go to them with questions, heartache and inspiration.

Every day I am thankful for the female friendships I have. I’m always thinking of how to expand that network as well as learn and grow with them.

Who are some of your greatest influences?
I think this question ties in with the last. My greatest influences have been my female friends. I could write a book about how amazing I think they all are. The women that I grew up with are world changers, survivors, Olympians and creators. If I can take just a percentage of their greatness, I’ll be a sure success.

If you could have dinner with any woman in history, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
I am smitten with Michelle Obama. She is a powerhouse and has a beautiful way of looking to the past to create a future. I love the way she leads her family and how she represents a bright part of our country’s optimism. Working at Michael Smith Inc, who designed the residential quarters of the White House, I felt that was a degree of separation closer :)

What are you grateful for?
Grace. There are parts of life we are ashamed of or don't highlight, but grace really solves chaos. Grace towards each other, ourselves and beyond.

Quote to live by?
“A rising tide lifts all boats”

Follow Jax's personal adventures, synchro magic or peep her latest event.
To catch all the magical details, check out her website!

Casha Doemland 8/4/19 Casha Doemland 8/4/19

Drew Linden

Tattoo artist, Drew Linden always had more taste for adventure than her small town allowed. To chase the dream, she left home for Northern California where she studied journalism and music.

Name: Drew Linden

Current City: Brooklyn, NY

Hometown: San Diego, CA

Occupation: Unicorn Maker, haha. In all seriousness, or not, I’m a Tattooer.

Born in the land of beach and sun, Drew Linden always had more taste for adventure than her small town allowed. To chase the dream, she left home for Northern California where she studied journalism and music. She returned to her Southern California roots once more to complete her tattoo apprenticeship before trekking across the country to call New York home. " I remember arriving here scared shitless but kept saying to myself if I can make it here I can make it anywhere, " states Drew.

After a six-year roller coaster, she continues to live in New York City with her two cats. When she's not tattooing, she's listening to her massive collection of records and boxing, her newest obsession.

Catch this badass tattooer at Eight of Swords Tattoo in Williamsburg Brooklyn and read about her journey below!

For starters, you're a wicked talented artist! What attracted you to the world of tattooing and how would you define intuitive tattooing?
I would honestly have to say, I was at the right place at the right time and wouldn't take no for an answer. I've been getting tattooed since I was 16 and it wasn't until I was looking for an after class job during college that I walked into a tattoo shop in my hometown and got hired. The first thing I really loved about the environment was the chance to connect with people on such a personal and intimate level. At that point, it would be six years before I even touched a tattoo machine.

The art was always a given. My grandfather was the only person in my family with a tattoo, and I remember always being so fascinated by it. Additionally, both of my parents were artistic so there was never a shortage of crafts in my house growing up.

After a year of working at the shop, I had made up my mind. This is what I wanted to do, so I began drawing. I was young and inexperienced, but I persisted and practiced every day. At this time, in the early 2000s, there were only two other female tattooers I knew of and they were big shoes to fill – Jackie Dunn Smith, the First Lady I had the pleasure of befriending and obsessing over... and I still fangirl to this day and she's one of my closest friends. She gave me the confidence to follow this passion.

I knew I wanted to make a difference, not only in tattooing but also in the realm of there being more females in the boys' club. I have always been set on working in a career that allowed me to help people and tattooing became that career for me. As an empath/intuitive person, I learned early on during consults that I could visualize exactly what my client wanted with one or two words – that goes along with body placement.

In the last eight years, I have also worked heavily on myself as a person and with my spirituality. Now, I can not only be told what a client may or may be going through, but I can also feel it. I've had friends describe me as an intuitive tattooer and also a scared scribe. I figured intuitive tattooers would just be easier to swallow for most people, haha. Either way, I look at tattooing as an art form and a serious way to heal mind, body and soul.

Off the top of your head, what are a couple of your favorite pieces to work on?
When I started tattooing, I was drawn to traditional or the Americana style of tattooings – bold lines, lots of black and bright colors. Over the years, my style has changed and I now do quite a bit of blackwork, etching style line and dot work. I really enjoy doing floral tattoos in either style, tarot/religious/occult symbology, stylized portraits, bold traditional and lady heads.

On top of the style above, you professional microblade eyebrows and freckles. Can you describe the process of microblading?
Mircoblading was one of those things where I saw a way to further my empathic/healing abilities in a more alternative setting. It is done with a hand tool, so no tattoo machine is needed. I start by numbing each client and then make small hair stroke lines on a mapped out brow line on the face. Freckles, on the other hand, I do use a machine. Both procedures are done with semi-permanent cosmetic tattoo ink.

How often do the brows/freckles have to be touched up?
Brows are a two-session process about 8 weeks apart. After the second follow up, depending on how much brow we are building and the color of pigment/hair used on a client, they're usually good to go for about 9 - 12 months.

Freckles are yearly but the more they fade, the more natural they look. I will say that once you get 'em you just want more!

How does art play a role in your life outside of the tattoo parlor?
I feel like once you realize you're an artist, which I believe everyone is, art is your life. Like, tattooing isn't just a job, it's my entire life and everything is connected to it. Yet, the biggest influence art has had on my life, outside of the shop, are fashion and music. I am always trying to put the strangest outfits together. I want to stand out and be loud and proud. I want to make the world realize that what others see as ridiculous is, in fact, wonderful in its own right. But, let's be totally honest, I wear a ton of black and listen to a lot of Billie Holiday and New Order.

When you need a moment to catch your breath and escape the realities of life, where do you go?
My bathtub. I fill it with the hottest water and Epsom salt; an amazing way to cleanse and ground my body and energy field.

If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be and why?
Learn accounting! Because one day you won’t be receiving a paycheck where someone does it for you. You’re gonna have to keep track of everything. Also, don’t grow up so fast. You’ve got all the time in the world to be amazing.

Discuss the importance of female friendships in your life.
Growing up, I was a tomboy. I wanted to hang out with boys, dress like them, play the games and sports they did. It wasn’t until college that I realized the necessity female friends would play in my life. Now I would literally die without them. I was lucky enough to have a sister who was very close in age with me so I always had her and she is my number one! But I have grown so much as a person in the female friendships I’ve had. Everyone is a lesson waiting to be learned and I’m so thankful for the ladies that have stuck by me through different points in my life.

Ladies of 8 of Swords and Jackie Dunn Smith

Who are some of your greatest influences?
Every single person trying to make a difference in this world.

If you could have dinner with any woman in history, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Marie Antonette because in the face of such hate, this woman was born into a position where you had no real voice. I’d like to hear her story.

Patti Smith because I know we’ve walked the same walk before and I’d love to be able to sit across from a woman who helped shape the idea of New York for me before I moved here.

Maud Wagner, the first female tattooer in the US. I wanna know what living within a circus and tattooing on the road was like.

What are you grateful for? My life. and the people in it. I am so incredibly fortunate to be living this life and I go to bed every night and wake up every morning thanking the universe for allowing me to be here.

Quote to live by?
Don’t look back. You aren’t going that way.

To view more from Drew, check out her Website and Tattoo Instagram and Brow Instagram.