Check out Corie Cisco’s Artwork

Today we’d like to introduce you to Corie Cisco.

Corie, we’d love to hear your story and how you got to where you are today both personally and as an artist.
Creativity is something I was born into. My parents are both from extremely unique cultures, and that has fostered an incredibly interesting environment to grow up in. My mother is a Swiss artist in numerous mediums. She is professionally trained as a pastry chef and has continuously exposed my sister and me to the wonderful world of creation. My father is a New Orleans native with a passion for curiosity and learning. He is a jack of all trades, and there is not something my dad can’t figure out eventually.

Therefore, both of my parents are a remarkable source of inspiration. There is still not a day that goes by that they are not dreaming up another project to take on together. It is a wonderful collaboration, and they are truly a guiding light of creativity and love. Another person who continuously inspires me is my warrior of a sister Sydney. She is a true artist, and I am captivated by her passion for life and undeniable talent. Nonetheless, I am fortunate in the sense of I am constantly surrounded by individuals who unwaveringly create.

From a young age, I have been drawn to the power of words. Reading is still my main vice, and this fervor stems from my desire to understand others. My enduring curiosity, in combination with my eagerness to learn, produced a strong empathic nature. This is where I find my motivation. I am an introverted individual, so the comfort of personal writing has helped me through my hardest days. It wasn’t until high school that I began to share my writing with others. I started out just as any other teenager might, writing incredibly angsty poetry that I still look back on with fond memories.

As I embarked on my academic venture, I found that communication through written word is marvelously powerful. When I began my master’s program, I was enamored with the arduous journeywomen have undertaken throughout history to gain the opportunity to freely express themselves. This is still a work in progress, but this interest has garnered my research with the human experience, gender identity, and performance.

We’d love to hear more about your art. What do you do you do and why and what do you hope others will take away from your work?
My creation is solely involved in the written word. I fundamentally believe we all have a story to tell since we undertake life’s challenges and successes on a day to day basis. People form their expression through a multitude of ways that have value, and this is my view with my own art. In recent years, my art has been grounded in research due to my involvement and passion for education. I am completely enchanted by the academic environment and the rich conversations it inspires. I am currently a student in a Master of Library and Information Science program. This opportunity allows me to practice my passion for equitable access and support resources that reflect the diversity of humanity in a more active way. Formal education is certainly not for everyone, and that is completely okay. However, the universe teaches and shapes us, and my art strives to support this evolution.

In an informal sense, I create my best writing when I am on the road with my partner Daelon. He is a wonderful light I am fortunate enough to surround myself with. There is an undeniable power in surrounding yourself in complete acceptance and love. Ultimately, my writing embraces the ebb and flow that life itself brings. One should never lose their zest for life through the dark days. During my undergraduate and graduate programs, I participated in a literary magazine and found myself as the lead editor. That is where I truly honed my interest in supporting others creatively as well. The art I create yearns to connect with people, and I try to nurture that message in all my interactions.

Artists face many challenges, but what do you feel is the most pressing among them?
Personally, I know many incredibly spirited artists who struggle financially, and this is a sad reality for many of creatives out there. I am fortunate in the sense that I have found myself in a position where I can get compensated for work that I find true value in. However, conventional jobs always come with their challenges and draining days. I currently work at The Design School where I work closely with faculty, staff and students to encourage their success and engage with the community. This position allows me to financially support myself while simultaneously teaching me invaluable lessons. There is an immense amount of resources that can assist you along the way, but I personally suggest trying to find a place where you are valued for your contribution and energy. I realize this is not the reality of everyone’s experience. However, do not stop trying.

It is important to note that I come from a place of privilege. I use that platform as motivation to do well for the community. This continues to inform my studies, creative projects and personal growth as I navigate the harsh waters of the world. Even when you do not perceive yourself as thriving, you are learning invaluable lessons if you open your heart and mind to the potential opportunities. Work hard, follow your passion, and rely on your community. If you don’t have a support system, please reach out to someone. I am happy to be that person for you, but you should know you are important. Never stop embracing your intricacies and personal growth.

Do you have any events or exhibitions coming up? Where would one go to see more of your work? How can people support you and your artwork?
As I mentioned, much of my previous work has been academic in nature. However, my sister gave me the wonderful opportunity to tap into my creative writing skills recently in her visual femme book “She.” This project was truly therapeutic for me, and I believe it is the age of female empowerment. We hope this visual book inspires productive conversation around the true definition of feminism and what that means for all of us as participants. It is so important to create a safe space. We hope many people can relate to this piece and realize there is a supportive community in Phoenix. You can purchase “She” here: http://www.blurb.com/b/8836165-she

I hope to continue my publication journey with a book of short stories. This is something I have always wanted to complete, and I think it is time for me to put my studies aside and pursue a project that is solely for my own creative growth.

Contact Info:

• Email: corie.cisco@gmail.com
• Instagram: coriecisco
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coriecisco

Image Credit:
Sydney Cisco, Blake Bonillas

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