In Conversation with Kirstie Edwards

On creativity, career and passion…

As an artist and a mother I have had to find ways to nurture myself, my children & my art . Prior to having children I played a lot of music and It felt only natural to me to create everyday.  Once I became a mother It wasn't always possible to sit at the piano and write, but I could always pick up my camera. Photography became my creative outlet through the early phases of motherhood, it brought me back to myself. It was personal at first . I loved the feeling of storing up all these memories just for us. 

Can you speak to your journey to becoming a photographer? When my son was born in 2015, motherhood became my whole world. It was so raw and beautiful I knew I needed to preserve it somehow. Many days felt blurry and busy and others were slow and calm. I was so immersed in this phase of life and it inspired most of my work . The powerful women and mothers around me became a strong inspiration. Slowly it evolved into a career as I started photographing friends and family . This is when I found out I had a real love for portraiture. 

What informs your visual storytelling? Most definitely observing life & the phases of childhood and motherhood. I am also drawn to shapes and light in my still life work. 

Where do you turn when seeking inspiration? I generally try to take myself (and my dog) on a solo walk to avoid overthinking and to quieten my mind for a while. I think much clearer when I am not trying too hard to think of ideas. They generally just present themselves in some way. 

On mothering… 

It brings up so much. It is raw and delicate. It allows for healing within ourselves if we take it and chance to embrace our inner child. 

Three words to describe your current season of motherhood? Slow mornings , community , late nights

Reflecting on your transition into motherhood, what act of gesture from a loved one (or stranger) left a lasting impact? I am very grateful to have a family around that supported my transition into motherhood. I had meals delivered by friends and family and it was honestly the most helpful thing at that point.

What does creativity look like for you whilst mothering? It is definitely a balancing act but Its important to me that I show my children to follow their passions. They show interest in what I am doing and are so encouraging and supportive. They are my biggest fans. 

As mothers we often play the role of nurturer, how do you nurture yourself ? Solo walks, face masks and herbal teas are my go to reset.

On ritual and daily rhythms… 

 I like to try and wake up first and have a cup of tea alone. I am usually icing my face or using a gua sha at this point. If no one has woken up yet I can use this time to also reply to emails and messages. Once everyone is up we will eat breakfast ( which is usually eggs some-way) . I love my weekly planner so I have usually organised my day so i will check this. Our days are usually learning , visiting friends and activities .  The nights are when I sit down to edit. Many photographers will tell you they don't enjoy this part, but I really do . I am always listening to music at the same time and this puts me in a nice state of mind.  

The first thing you do when you wake up? Brush my teeth.

The last thing you do before bed? Drink a glass of water.

Three items always find in your fridge/pantry? Film (fridge) butter and dates. 

Rituals that ground you? Walking in nature.

An artist or album you always turn to? Hania Rani.

To learn more about Kirstie and her work find her here