“My father once said, ‘Do not let what other people do or say determine your moral compass. I know you are one of the most beautiful souls, I have the privilege of knowing and I really like you just the way you are! So just be you!’" -Adderly
Adderly Grant-Lord has devoted her life to the study and cultivation of Art as a vehicle for enriching people’s lives. Her mission is to create artworks that deepen our connection with being alive, courageously step into our larger purpose and to inspire greater service. Adderly’s abstract paintings explore freedom and beauty through dynamic compositions, thoughtful color, and expressive brushwork. Her work center’s around themes of freedom, beauty and connecting with the world around you. Trained at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, and the Art institute of Pittsburgh, her work is exhibited throughout the Front Range.
What is your background?
I am originally from St. Vincent and the Grenadines in the Carribean and I moved to Princeton, New Jersey at the age of 12. After high school, my passion for painting and fashion illustration led me to the Art Institute of Pittsburgh where I majored in Visual Arts with a minor in fashion illustration. My interest in fashion grew and I ended up at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. I studied womenswear and earned my BFA in Fashion Design, where I worked as a fashion designer. One of the highlights of my fashion career was working on Oscar de La Renta's couture knitwear collection. After moving to Colorado, I rediscovered my love for painting.
At what moment did you know you wanted to enter a creative career?
A High School art teacher told me that I had a natural talent when I was a sophomore and invited me to use the art studio after class. She let me work in the studio alone and on various projects. It was at that juncture that I began to love painting. As a result, many people took notice and suggested that I attend Art School.
Who or what inspires you?
Color inspires me. Color can change my mood in seconds. Different color combinations, for me, can determine happiness or sadness. I always work towards happiness. People also inspire me when they experience my work, whether they are viewing my paintings or wearing clothes that I have made with joy. That brings me incredible happiness and more inspiration.
What is your dream project?
To be better than my last self. Also, to combine and merge fashion and painting. When I paint, I can see these paintings made into fabric and then made into garments. I would love to create a collection like this, and I will.
How do you seek out an opportunity?
I always look to collaborate with other artists like Collen Nyahongo and Janice Russell of Creative Fine Art Galleries and like-minded people like West & Main Homes.
If you are a local artist/crafter/maker/indie business owner and would like to be featured on our blog, please fill out this form or contact Ashley at ashley@westandmainhomes.com with questions...we can't wait to learn all about you!
