Born: March 3, 1991, in Norfolk, Virginia – As I was born, my maternal grandfather passed away in the same hospital.
Educational Background: Bachelor’s in mass communication with a focus on creative advertising and minor in business from Virginia Commonwealth University
Current Computer/Mobile Device: I can’t believe I’m saying this, but both are Apple products. Not a huge fan of Apple phones, but I have an iPhone 7, but I love my MacBook Pro.
What do you do for a living?
I create! I’m a painter, illustrator and designer.
What do you love about your work?
I love that I get to freely express myself in a way that eases my anxiety and makes me fill full.
What was your childhood dream?
To be a photojournalist and editor-in-chief of a magazine.
How do you keep track of what you’ve done?
Writing it down and taking pictures. I take pictures, of course, to share, but also for my memories. There are so many pictures of accomplishments or small success that I have and keep to myself so that I can look back on. I also write in a journal and keep a planner.
When you make sacrifices for your work, do you tell people or keep it to yourself?
I keep it to myself. Majority of sacrifices my family, friends or social media will never know.
What do you do to recharge yourself?
Take a trip that’s just for relaxing. At least once a month I go “away” for a few days. I travel somewhere new, even if it’s a town only 30 minutes away, and I leave work behind me. I rent an Airbnb, find local places to eat and activities to do. I usually do this alone, but a few times I’ve done it with friends.
Do you have a morning ritual? If so, what is it?
Yes. Prayers, wash and gym without talking to anyone or limited interactions. I love to start my mornings focusing on myself and how I’m doing before involving others.
What has been your biggest disappointment in life, and how did you handle it?
My lack of support from my family as a child. I’m still dealing with it, but I remind myself that most grew up in a generation that never supported artistry as a profession or currently lives in an era that doesn’t appreciate the extensiveness of work it takes to be a full-time artist.
What is your most significant accomplishment? Is there anything you hope to do even greater?
My biggest accomplishment is being able to break statistics from being a woman of color from Norfolk, Virginia, (an area of high crime rates and low income) that is succeeding at being an artist and doing it without shaming where I come from but instead embracing it and giving back to that community or ones like it that have shaped me into the person I am now.
With whom do you most want to collaborate?
I would LOVE to collaborate with Solange. I love everything about her style, personality and what she’s doing with Saint Heron.
What are your favorite apps/tools that help you do what you do?
Pinterest. I use it to create vision boards when I have an upcoming project or events.
Who is the most influential person in your life?
My older brother, Abram.
What do you feel your impact is on those around you? What would you like it to be?
I think I’m most impactful as an inspiration to chase your dreams. I’ve always been the outcast who’s pursuing my passions and not what’s trending. I’m now noticing that that’s something a lot of people know me for and have inspired them to want to do the same in their lives. I would love to continue to impact others, especially those from my hometown to keep pressing toward what they’re passionate about, even if it’s just a hobby.
For what are you most grateful?
I’m most grateful for my support system full of friends and supporters. They truly keep me going and continuously instill in me that I am enough.
What inspires you?
I’m inspired by everyday life. I’m observant, and I take in everything I come into contact with, with an open heart and mind. People, food, drinks, music and fashion.
Who is your favorite person to follow on social media?
Tracee Ellis Ross, she’s witty, talented, charismatic and a go-getter!
What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
I was one credit off from having a double minor in African American studies. I always appreciated learning about African American history, literature and culture.
What scares you most?
Not showing growth!
What do you want more/less of in your life?
I want more love!! Less unexpected deaths, health issues and traumatic situations in my family.
What do you love most about yourself?
My ability to internally motivate me. I don’t know how, but I’ve never needed an external push from someone or something to achieve a goal. I’ve always acted off my desire and knew if I didn’t accomplish it I would be letting myself down.
What piece of literature has influenced you the most?
What are you currently reading or is the last book you read?
We’re Going to Need More Wine by Gabrielle Union
What is the most exciting thing you’ve read online recently?
Miguel and DVSN going on tour this year. If you haven’t heard of DVSN, they’re my favorite duo in a long time.
In conversation do you tend to talk or listen more?
Listen more.
What are you looking for when you have a conversation with someone? What topics do you want to discuss?
Authenticity. I love having conversations about growth, overcoming adversity and private successes with others. I gravitate toward genuine discussions.
If you were guaranteed honest answers to two questions, what would you ask and to whom?
Do you believe you have sold your soul, heart and mind to society? – Kanye West
Do you truly believe I can be successful as an artist? – My father
Is there something that you’ve dreamed of doing for a while? If so, what is it and why haven’t you?
Opening a studio has always been a dream. Right now, I’m looking to find a city I love that I would want to set up shop. I don’t want to rush opening it where I’m currently living because I can’t say I “love” this area.
When is the last time you cried and why?
About a week ago. Gratitude! It finally hit me that I’m dedicated to my craft full time and have taken full control over my narrative.
Where is your favorite place?
The bathtub.
If you could take a one-month trip anywhere in the world, all expenses paid, where would you go and what would you do?
I would travel to Japan and try as many foods as possible. I would engulf myself in the culture and practice learning Japanese.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Chicken and rice (with sugar)
What is your favorite food to prepare?
Curry Shrimp
What is a song, album or playlist that everyone should hear?
What is happiness to you?
Happiness is waking up every day loving what I do and who I am as a person in a high-rise apartment and pouring a glass of champagne and watching the sunset at the end of the day.
What is the greatest lesson you’ve learned?
Every collaboration is not a good collaboration. It’s OK to say no.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Choose yourself more. Stop giving so much to others before making sure that you are giving 100% to yourself.
Do you have a mantra or quote that guides your life?
“Try it at least once” – I apply this to my personal and professional lives.
What would you regret not fully being, doing or having in your life?
I would regret not being fully faithful to who I am. I try to make every decision with thinking more about myself than what others will think or would expect of me.
How would you like to be remembered?
I want to leave a mark on the world as being not only being a God-given artist but someone that spreads unbiased love and good energy to everyone through her work and connections and is always smiling and willing to hug any stranger.
Who would you like to answer these questions?
Solange.
Connect with Addie Randle
Visit Addie Randle’s website.
Follow her on Facebook.
Purchase her artwork.
