EP 8 - "Finding Joy Through Art" | Stacey Billups | Artist, Social Worker, and Educator

Show Notes for Let's Talk: Passion & Purpose with Nicole ThomasEpisode Title: Finding Joy Through Art with Stacey BillupsEpisode Description:Join Nicole Thomas as she sits down with Brooklyn-based painter Stacey Billups, an artist celebrated for her ability to capture the essence of joy, connection, reflection, and rest in her vibrant paintings. Stacey shares how her art brings to life the moments when people are thriving rather than just surviving.A self-taught artist and seasoned social worker with over twenty years of experience, Stacey discusses the intersection of her art and her career, her journey of discovering her passion for painting, and how she balances it all. From her Brooklyn studio, Stacey creates stunning works using oil, watercolor, and gouache, drawing inspiration from family, friends, strangers, and cultural figures she encounters daily.In this episode, we delve into:The story behind Stacey's transition from social work to becoming a celebrated artist.How she uses a vibrant palette to reflect joy and connection in her subjects.The importance of centering joy and rest in art and life.Her experiences showcasing her art at notable exhibitions, including the 2024 Every Woman Biennial and MoCADA Abolition House.Insights into her creative process and the cultural significance of her work.Featured Guest:Stacey BillupsPainter based in Brooklyn, NYExhibited at renowned venues such as LaMama Galleria and Kente Royal Gallery.Featured in Uptown Magazine and USA Today: Best Years Magazine.Passionate about highlighting moments of joy and reflection through art.Exhibitions and Features:2024: Every Woman Biennial, LaMama Galleria, NY.2023: 'M’dear: Exploring The Black Maternal,’ MoCADA Abolition House, Governors Island, NY.2023: 'Healing and Hope,’ Kente Royal Gallery, NY.2022: Public art with Arts Gowanus in Red Hook, Brooklyn, and citizenM Hotel, Miami, FL.Publications: Uptown Magazine Martha’s Vineyard Edition (2023) and USA Today: Best Years Magazine (2020).Tune In:This inspiring conversation will leave you reflecting on your passions and how you can create moments of joy and purpose in your life.Don’t miss this episode of Let’s Talk: Passion & Purpose with Nicole Thomas!Where to Listen:Available on-demand on all major digital platforms.