EP 15 - finding Your roots & unearthing passion in photography
In this episode, I welcome Marisha Shanti Kelly, a creative who travels the globe with her partner, musician Billy Otto, and shares holistic wellness practices she recently learned in Columbia. We discuss the ups and downs in our lives and careers, the power of social media in connecting people, the necessity of nurturing in-person relationships, the importance of understanding one's unique artistry, and the importance of looking after one's mental and physical health for sustained creativity.
About Marisha:
Marisha Rosalska is a young creative polymath from Byron Bay Australia. An internationally respected photographer, she focuses in the spaces of music, fashion and lifestyle.
At just 24 years of age, Marisha has shot professionally at iconic music festivals such as Lollapolooza (Berlin), Sziget (Budapest), and Haydays festival (Tasmania) and captured artists such as Foals, Confidence Man and Easylife.
“I don’t just take pictures, I tell stories. I create art. I intention to bring the observer into a deeper remembering of themselves.” - Marisha
Connecting Through Social Media
Speaking of social media marketing, one of the many ways that I have grown my business is by connecting with other creatives and supporting each other. My podcast guest, Marisha’s unique journey brought her into contact with me - a perfect example of the connectivity power of social media. She shared about her origin, coming from Australia to create art in LA, and her experiences connecting with other creatives during her travels.
With a great passion for portraits, fashion, and music photography, her enthusiasm bubbled as she recounted the fortune of sitting alongside me, a fellow creative, affirming the incredible power of social media in bringing artists together.
Wellness & Connectivity in Art
Chatting about the topic of holistic wellness, Marisha shared her eye-opening retreat in Colombia, allowing her to unplug and focus on her wellness. This journey sparked her desire to integrate health and wellness concepts into her photography business, creating a more balanced workspace for everyone involved.
For me, adopting a holistic mindset has opened up opportunities to leverage multiple streams of income and maintain high-quality service delivery. This conversation highlighted how, as an artist, you transfer your own energy to your audience, making prioritizing wellness an essential aspect of the creative process.
Breaking Through Creative Boundaries
As artists, we constantly push the envelope, refusing to be boxed into just one thing. We challenge norms, redefine standards, and test the waters in new areas. Marisha and I agreed that although it might seem tempting to stick to what you know best, exploring new concepts can be rewarding and fulfilling. I shared my plans to venture into editorial fashion shoots, reinforcing the idea that my creativity shouldn't be limited.
Creating art is a personal journey, and its unique expression should capture the essence of the artist without conforming to societal norms or standards.
Concluding Thoughts
Regardless of where you are on your creative journey, whether you're an established artist or just starting, fighting against the desire to compare yourself to others is central. It's essential to bear in mind your unique path and pace.
Art tends to mirror life – as Marisha and I discovered, with our experiences and life journeys considerably influencing our art and style. Through our conversation, we highlighted the importance of trusting your process, embracing your distinct journey, and leaning into opportunities that promote growth and self-discovery. What matters most are the impacts created and the hearts touched by your work and artistry.
Find Marisha:
Website: joharahfilm.com
Instagram: @joharahfilm
Instagram: @marishashantikelly
Connect with Me:
Subscribe to our emails for updates on all things Summer School!
Instagram: @summergrace.photo @the_summerschool
Shop My Products:
Become a Member of Summer School
My Summer Grace x G-Presets (discount code: SUMMERSCHOOL)
