Kaleighia Green is passionate about art and and wants her Residency project to be something that “the community and Make-it Springfield can benefit from” and also to promote character development and freedom of self-expression. “Art can help people identify emotional conflicts, reduce anxiety, and improve self-esteem and social skills.” Kaleighia also hopes to learn from the other three 2022 Fellows and staff at Make-it Springfield, and to focus on growing in a positive direction. “I am so ready to step out of my comfort zone. I want to help get behind the mission to influence creative forward-thinking in our community.”
How did you find out about Make-It Springfield? I was walking by one day and my intuition told me to stop and see what was going on, ever since then I was committed to being a part of it.
What do you hope to accomplish as a Residency Fellow? During this fellowship, I wish to become more comfortable with creating abstract art. I want to encourage creativity in others and get viewers to want to interact with it.
How do you define success? I define success as commitment to a preferred outcome, so much faith in an idea and the plan to execute it that no matter what obstacles may try to get in the way of it the goal is still achieved.
What role does creativity play in your life? Creativity has helped me with maintaining my individuality. There is so much conformity happening on a day to day basis that I appreciate being in a creative space. I experience a sense of freedom. There are no rules and no right answers which keeps things exciting.
How does being a maker or artist fit into the rest of your life? I am a graduate student, a business owner, and a behavioral therapist for autistic children so I have a very full schedule at the moment. This fellowship has created a space and time for me to have room to create without adding on any extra stress. I love to create, sometimes this can be difficult when time is flying by. I create to stay connected to who I am. Being an artist is a gift that I cherish and do not ever want to give up on.
What is the best way for people to connect with you and view your work? Instagram @artbykaleighia