Keisha Leon is an artist and designer that uses narratives to reflect her own experiences; and connecting conceptual design with social outcomes, to change the narrative for the future. We are obsessed with her design style and are beyond excited to have her design a t-shirt for our 2023 #privilegetax campaign.
"My style is to have fun type, for this shirt I wanted a bold statement that starts the conversation around the gender pay gap, “I’ll have what he’s having” is a design I did in my early days and wanted to revisit it for the tee, it is a bit tongue in cheek, but in all seriousness, I will have what he’s having... with a side of equality." - Keisha Leon
Let's get to know a bit more about Keisha;
Why is equal pay important to you?
Equal pay is a human right. The gender pay gap and ‘gaps’ in society are intrenched in systemic inequalities and injustices that affect people and communities for generations to come.
Who are your biggest artistic influences?
My biggest influences are my family and finding my own voice through expression and connection to who I am. I also love following artists that explore political and social topics and challenge our thinking on important issues.What made you decide to pursue a career in design?
I’ve always wanted to be a designer, and I love the freedom of exploring my craft within design, and bringing that through in various executions.
What is your proudest moment to date?
Working for myself. Financial liberation is something I have always work toward since watching my family struggle with it in various ways, it had such a negative association, which created a fear in being trapped by it. Secondly, being able to break from the mould of what was expected of me as a First Nations designer, defining that for myself by allowing the space to explore my identity, and hold my values and integrity to the highest standard in how I work and who with.
What would be your dream project?
My dream project would be grassroots and community based, something that has real impact to create change that you can see the design affects for the better. Great projects for me are the right balance of people, purpose and joy.
Why do you think art is important to society?
Art gives a voice to the voiceless, it cuts through the dominant narrative. It chases hearts, to change minds to create change.
Any techniques for overcoming creative blocks?
Trust the process. Creativity comes from your soul, and if there is a block – I leave it, go home be with my family, go for a run, have a bath and trust that tomorrow or the next day, it will be ON or you need to de-fluff and start again. When the idea doesn’t come from the heart, it will show.
How would your friends and family describe you in 3 emojis?
🥹😍💅🏾
*Tell me you’re a Cancer without telling me you’re a cancer
Connect with Keisha: