linyage lady : kate worum
If Amy Poehler, Sofia Coppola, Jenny Lewis and Carrie Bradshaw some how created an offspring, we'd bet our french lace that even she wouldn't be as cool or as clever as this week's linyage lady, Kate Worum.
A Minnesota native whose talent is utterly limitless, we cannot stop picking up what Kate is putting down. She is every bit, what we feel, to be effortlessly chic : makes no apologies for being herself while somehow still maintaining a finger on the pulse of what's worth trying to emulate. The funny thing about it, however, is that everyone else is trying to be her. And her sweet and sincere oblivion to it all is what makes her so damn lovable. That, and her ever-evident quick wit and raunchy humor that somehow always feels impeccably timed. Self-deprocating comedy while every bit the lady? We will drink whatever she's having, thanks.
Kate first came on to our radar back in 2006, when she and our Creative Director Sarah met as freshmen in college at a small town in MN. The two would run into one another at parties, both sharing paralleled interest to get the heck out of dodge and do something creative, albeit loving the amazing people and cheap rent at where they were at. After enough time and scoffing, they later circled back up just a couple of years ago, both having realized that they indeed followed their artistic aspirations. However, bare in mind that what was Kate's initial proposal back as a talented and eager 19 year old were far surpassed and quickly, as made clear by her encycolpedia-size list of who and what she has created for. A mixed media artist, Ms. Worum has a vast array of talents and her pieces, while boasting a recognizable style, are all incredibly unique and often times relevant to current events.
Currently creating pieces for the likes of everyone from the beloved Parc Botique to Man Repeller to Urban Outfitters, we could not be more proud of our friend, whose relentless efforts are much deserving of the acclaim she is getting. With her demanding schedule, we're so grateful that Kate could graciously find some time to share with us about herself as an artist, and how her roots are painted throughout it all. (Sorry, we had to.)
Q. First things first: Tell us who you are as an artist/creative, in 5 words or less.
A. I'm a mixed bag artist.
Q.You've got a young spirit but it's evident that you also have an old soul and connect with past eras in your work. and perhaps any person or facet of your lineage that resonate with you most when reflecting upon it.
A.I sadly don't feel a strong sense of connection to my family's past or really understand the depths of my lineage. I'd really love to dig deeper to know and understand where I come from.
Q. How have you noticed your own 'linyage' influence you as an artist? Where does that show up in your work?
A. My immediate family has certainly influenced my work. My family is bizarre, rocky and abrasive, but also filled with a lot of love and emotion. I am now all of those things as well... And I think you can see that range in my work.
Q. You're a born and bred Minnesotan, though you've traveled all over the world for work and pleasure. Tell us why you chose to reside in MN, and how your geographical location influences your business and/or creative process.
A. I am a fan of comfort zones and Minneapolis is exactly that to me. Metaphorically, a big pair of grey sweat pants. A big part of it is my loved ones and the sense of familiarity that I really crave to be around. I love to explore and get out of the Minneapolis bubble to gain new perspective and to shock myself when life gets boring. So, creating opportunities to see new places is something that is important to me. However, it always feels amazing to come back home. Professionally speaking I love how approachable everyone is here.
Q. New or old, where or whom do you draw your inspiration?
A. Nowhere in particular. Everywhere. Mostly through things that feel "new" to me. That could be a color palette, a person of interest, a technique I'd like to explore. Inspiration is unpredictable and that is what keeps things exciting.
Q. Favorite time of day to create?
A. Mid morning (post coffee)
Q. Best nugget of advice you've been given that stands true for you today?
A. Trust your gut. It's usually right. Especially if you are a woman... Then it's your 6th sense. You know what I'm saying?
We trust it and are listening closely. Thanks for giving women such a good name, KW.