Episode 43: Painting History at Home: Emma Paints with Keisha Finnie

Send us Fan MailIn this Black History Month episode of Living in 3D Power, Emma sits down with Lancaster Pennsylvania-based artist Keisha Finnie (@keishafinnie) or an intergenerational conversation about creativity, Black history, community, and what it means to make art that lives beyond us.As they paint together inside Keisha’s home, Emma takes part in creating a mural that will be installed at the Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Center for History and Democracy, opening in May. The episode blends rapid-fire questions, reflective dialogue, and real-time art-making to explore how Black history is learned, lived, and created.Chapters02:10 – Rapid Fire Questions Emma opens with rapid-fire questions about creativity, inspiration, and staying connected to art.03:26 – Discussing Merch and Art Keisha talks about creating wearable and accessible art through merchandise and creative products.04:51 – The Challenges and Joys of Painting Murals A look at the physical, emotional, and communal aspects of mural work.07:44 – Childhood and Early Art Experiences Keisha reflects on her early relationship with art and how creativity showed up in her childhood.10:34 – The Importance of Creativity and Self-Care Discussion on burnout, rest, and creativity as an essential form of care.16:17 – Black History and Art Exploring how Black history is carried, preserved, and expressed through artistic practice.18:38 – The Power of Learning Young Emma and Keisha discuss why it matters for young people to learn history early and see themselves reflected.19:00 – Creating a Historic Mural Conversation about painting a mural for the Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Center and what it means to contribute to a permanent historical space.21:39 – Black Artists and Representation A discussion on representation, museums, and visibility for Black artists.23:09 – Finding Inspiration and Community Keisha shares how community and collaboration sustain her work.27:51 – The Therapeutic Art of Henna Exploring henna as a healing, body-centered, and temporary art form.33:49 – The Importance of Black Art and Community Rejecting scarcity and competition in favor of collective growth and shared space.36:46 – Emma’s Reflections and Takeaways Emma shares what stood out to her from the conversation and the experience of painting history.Connect with Me:Instagram: @natural_inclinationYoutube: @naturalinclinationTikTok: Amber SessomsLinkedIn: Dr. Amber M. Sessoms, NCSPBluesky: @ambersessoms.bsky.socialFacebook: Natural InclinationWebsite: www.aninclination.comLike, Comment, Share, EngageIf this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who would love these conversations. Engage with the Curiosity Cards and ask the youth in your life about their experiences because you might be surprised by what you learn. Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments or on social media using #LivingIn3DPower. And, don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for next week’s conversation!