Meet Charisma Roselle!
- Charisma Edmonds- Massey
- Oct 23, 2022
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 30, 2022
21 Questions with Charisma Roselle
Cherokee Creator, Owner of Charisma Roselle
1. Who are you and where are you from?
My name is Charisma Roselle and I was born in Petersburg, Virginia but raised in Richmond, VA. I am a wife, mother, sister, homie…allat.
2. What's a common misconception people have about artists?
It is possible for most to create from an authentic space as a side hustle along with working a corporate or traditional 9 to 5.
3. What's the biggest sculpture that you have ever created? Do you have a picture of it?
I can think of quite a few. I do not know the dimensions, but I think I do have pictures of them. Take a look below 😊
4. Acrylic or oil paint?
Acrylic. I have yet to truly enjoy or study oil.
5. Has it become more relaxing to incorporate the Cherokee language into your art over time or even more pressure?
I used to look at the language as a task but now I am understanding it's a lifestyle. So, initially where there was a lot of mental pressure to find people/relatives to speak with, now is more of a curious/ laxed feeling.
6. What advice would you give to the youth about becoming an artist?
Be scared! Channel what you feel to tell your story, it's your art. A reflection of the times through your lenses.
7. What's the longest it has taken you to finish a sculpture?
Yoo, one time I spent months on a piece of a piece. TO THIS DAY the piece isn't complete, but it definitely showed me that I possess the power to really concentrate on something that speaks to me. Although incomplete, it’s one of my favorites, honestly.
8. How do you stay disciplined enough to finish a piece? Can you share some of your routine with us?
Haha. I do not know. I get curious and can just buckle down and create logical deadlines. I am a mother and wife. I wear many titles. I have been able to be real with myself about what is truly worth spending time on from start to finish.
9. When you're feeling down, do you use that energy to create more art, or do you take some time off to reflect?
It depends on the piece. If it is something for grief and sadness, I allow that energy in that space. Sometimes creating that work takes a bit of me too. If it is something to channel happiness and gratitude, I honor those feelings too. It's all about what it is specifically and what it requires.
10. Do you enjoy independent projects or collaborations more? Why?
Nowadays, Independent. I vibe very well alone. I like feeling what I am feeling, when I am feeling it and expressing it freely. I don't wish to over-explain or have to constantly cater to the other. At times that is just my nature but when it comes to my art, I like sitting in my own aura.
11. What's your artistic style?
I don't have one style. Sometimes I am excited to share my heritage, speak the language. Other times, I am just being nostalgic or get into a bit of animation. I think it depends on the season and the reason(s) for me... also, the mediums matter!
12. What's your favorite medium?
I would have to say it's between Ceramic and Apoxie clay. Ceramic is so versatile for realism, and I can eat or smoke out of the pieces I create, but Apoxie is more shatter and weather-proof than other mediums. Though it isn't safe to eat from, it is tough, like stone. I can't decide between the two but out of all the mediums, these easily rank high.
13. Are there any mediums that you haven't tried that you're interested in?
Yes! I would love to try out oils as mentioned earlier but I also want to try out different natural dyes and inks.
14. Who are some of your favorite artists?
Maria Poveka Martinez, Augusta Savage, Edmonia Lewis, Elizabeth Catlett and Artis Lane are a few that instantly come to mind.
15. Have you ever stepped out of your comfort zone with art?
Yes, I believe when I got into textiles, that's when I stepped out of my comfort zone with art.
16. If so, what inspired you to take that step?
Actually, doing hair. I have been braiding hair since I was 7 or 8. So finding so many similarities between braiding and crocheting was magical to me.
17. Do you come from a family of artists or are you the first?
I do come from a family of artists. Though I think I may be one of the firsts to do it professionally.
18. Do you create art full-time?
Yes, I do. I have an online handmade shop filled with gifts for everything from weddings, birthdays, I miss you or just because items.
19. New work or replicas of indigenous works?
Replicas. Our ancestors were so wise. When I take the time to research motifs, I am always amazed with what I find.
20. Is it harder or easier to promote yourself on social media?
Easier. I understand that it may be challenging to start but remain consistent with reminders (in your personal space) that will help you stay true to your process. It is easier said than done but (speaking from experience) completely worth it in the end.
21. What is something that you have learned in the past year that you would like to share in reference to art and business?
Support doesn't always look like a reaction or comment on social media. Support also doesn't always look like people promising you things in the future. Sometimes support wakes up in the middle of the night and quietly buys several things from your shop or speaks of you to a friend or a potential member of your network in a loving way. Support is a verb is what I have learned in this past year. I thank you for the support and I send you nothing but gratitude and the will to continue to transform in exchange. <3
Let the people know how they can reach you:
Website: www.charismaroselle.com
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