Meet Abby. The Artist.
Abby went to school for Graphic Design and Photography, and photographed her first wedding in 2009. She loves seeing the different types of emotion and connection people can have when looking at an image or piece of artwork. She said, “It is so fascinating to watch as each person interprets through a different lens.” When asked what inspired her to do this project, she said, “I think the last year and a half has been so mentally and emotionally exhausting… and so so isolating. The idea of offering connection through story or shared experience; something that can offer hope, has never been more needed. I have been inspired by these stories and the impact a resilient mindset can have.” Her hope through this project is to remind our community that we are all human. She said, “We all have a story. We all know struggle in our own right. It is just so important to meet each other with kindness and have an open heart.” She also hopes this serves as a reminder that we are all in charge of our decisions and the way we choose to meet obstacles.
Going through her own struggles in life, healing from shame and grief, she allows herself to feel these emotions to feel present. She said, “this last year especially has been about how important it is to sit with my emotions; really allowing myself to feel and focus on learned behaviors/patterns by being aware of habits I have created around my own trauma.” She also leans into the light, tenacity, and will to succeed that loved ones have seen in her throughout the years.
“I think that even though we all think we are the only ones that have been though it, we aren’t. Somehow, someway, someone can relate and will be inspired by your story to keep going. Human connection is important for our souls to thrive.”
Abby and Nic met each other while working at Express Employment Professionals in Grand Rapids, where they transform lives through positive employment and building community through stories of hope.