Daily Inspiration: Meet Amanda Carter

Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda “Poppy” Carter.

Hi Poppy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m a self-taught henna artist. Growing up, I was always neck deep in some creative project, which has continued into adulthood! My interest in tattoos and body art has fascinated me from as far back as I can remember. I used my own body as a canvas to create and learn, along with anyone else who would let me practice on them. Many red-stained fingers later, I found that this budding passion has also opened up new opportunities to travel, and I’ve recently begun to take my henna on the road. I now connect with other humans all over through the adornment of body art in various forms, which has been such a beautiful experience to step into!

We all face challenges, but would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’m not convinced any artist walks a smooth road. While there are no profound tales of woe and hardship that I bring with me, my obstacles often look like self-doubt and the ever-present urge to assume I’m not good enough. Perfectionist tendencies? Sure. I don’t know any artist who isn’t hypercritical of their work. I’m also a mother who wants to show my child that you can follow your dreams. Forging an unprecedented path through life isn’t easy, but it’s been the best decision ever!

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a full-time artist. What am I proud of? The fact that I’ve made that sentence my reality! I’m currently working as a henna artist and tattooist. I’m particularly interested in connecting with local markets in and around the Phoenix area. If you see me around, please do say hello!

If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I was a quiet kid, my head always in a book or the clouds. Maybe both. I was forever losing myself to some new creative idea or art project. I was the kid who sat in the back of the class drawing, always drawing, because I swear it helped me focus better. Perhaps you’d find me surrounded by heaps of carefully folded paper because I’d just learned about origami and couldn’t make a hundred tiny cranes. Or maybe I’d be creating tiny clay figurines after discovering how fun sculpting is. I remember getting lost in my world for weeks, writing and illustrating whole books for myself just because I could because I needed to create. I’m happy to report that not much has changed over the years!

Contact Info:

• Website: linktr.ee/wholehearthenna
• Instagram: whole.heart.henna