A Gentlewoman of Chidoriya
Who are you?
I am Caitlin Cantrell, a ballet teacher and fitness lover. I also love all things health and wellness. I am definitely a dreamer and a doer, no matter how crazy the dreams might be.
Who are you?
I am Michelle L'amour, The Most Naked Woman.
All photos / Copyright by Michelle L'amour
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Please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
The first memory I have, as a child, is singing to dead bugs. I walked in the countryside until I found the right spot to perform a ritual. This was my form of play. Then I sang and sang, knowing that the chant helped the soul of the critter to leave the body. What I do today is a "mature" manifestation of this form of play. I blend storytelling, healing, and travel to support people in transition, including me. Change is difficult and, at some point, I committed to dedicating my life to it.
What's most important for you being a professional in your industry?
Courage, resilience, and commitment. The quality of work in Chicago is very high. As a solo immigrant artist, I must strive to create the best work I can, to contribute to this city's excellence and, hopefully, to make a positive difference.
Your favorite quote:
The quote that was on the door of the Oracle at Delphi, Greece, "Know Thyself." By becoming aware of your inner and outer landscapes, you can truly live content and generous life.
Photos of Laura / Copyright by Laura Biagi
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All photos / Copyright by Chloe Zabicki
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In high school, I dabbled in painting but didn’t really start until college.
Yes, I went to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago
The best thing I learned was in an art history class taught by Robert Loescher. He taught us those boring old paintings are actually sexy, fun, and relatable.
Windows, light, and looking
I am working on a series of paintings of mirrors reflecting windows and doorways. It is very confusing.
Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood
I play tennis in the park and do tennis dances afterward, which you can see here: https://www.instagram.com/gwendolynz/
I have an exhibition that opens September 1st at Roman Susan Gallery and I am curating a show called On Anxiety that opens on September 8th. 2018 at the College of DuPage.
Spending lots of time in the studio and going to art openings. Both are very important!
I love cotton and silk facial cloth. People actually notice when I use it and tell me how good my skin looks.
This is one I think about a lot. It is from the poem The Little Gidding, by T. S. Eliot
What's most important for you being a professional illustrator?
Freedom and trust. Even though I'm working with other people and need their input, my favorite clients are the ones who trust my decisions. When I'm given that space, my ideas are truer and my work is stronger.
Where to find your paintings?
I sell prints of my work, and sometimes originals, in my Etsy shop.
Your favorite from Chidoriya
I bought the Eye Serum a few weeks ago because I fell in love with the drawing of the eyes on the label! I've already gone through most of the bottle because I use it all the time.
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A Gentlewoman of Chidoriya No. 3:
Andrea C. Samuels
What color do you think you are and why?
Robin's Egg Blue. Colors of Blue inthe lighter range make me happy!And birds come to visit me often!
Saddest or hardest moment... When a beloved Dog goes to Dog Heaven.
Most favorite Chidoriya items Peach Moon Water, of course! And those adorable Maiko cosmetic bags that hold all the small-sized items. It makes travel so easy!
Most memorable joyful moment of your life...Every time I got a new dog or puppy, and a meeting a new friend in Chicago!
Who are you?
Nancy
What if?
I became the president of the USA
Where do you live now?
Chicago
]]>Your favorite item in chidoriya
Yuzu seed cleansing balm