We had the good fortune of connecting with Naomi C.Gallay and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Naomi, how does your business help the community?
My artistic work is focused on the human form, transcending the boundaries of classical portraiture by creating “inclusive” portraits. It is a commentary on social constructs, identity and race. The human essence defines the portrait, beyond the individual character. Through the use of abstracted forms, shadows, tonal contrast and light, I wish my work question and challenge about inequality issues transmitting a message of unity in diversity, of equality, peace and support.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?

I work as a designer and artist, which means, most of the time, I am in the heart of the process of creation. I do art direction, create and develop visual identities. I take part in art shows and collaborations with brands, mostly in the fashion industry. Sometimes my artwork is digital, painted on large canvas or printed on a sweatshirt, I love having carte blanche and playing with various formats. I received my BA from the graphic design department at ECAL (University of Art and Design of Lausanne) in 2016. After a few working experiences in design studios between Switzerland and California, I decided to open my own studio in Lausanne (Switzerland). Creativity is more than a passion, it is a deep necessity to express myself, it is also a way of thinking and a way of living. As a freelancer you never know the amount of work you will have during the next months, there is no stability and regularity. You must know why you are doing what you are doing and if you feel ready to fight for it. However the freedom and the unlimited opportunities you get is priceless. I think it is very important to be surrounded by good people who give you support, confidence, well-meaning advice and help you to overcome the challenges. I believe it is significant to dare to be yourself, to keep being an honest and trustworthy person, to strive for excellence, to never stop dreaming, to develop inspiration, to turn every project into a great opportunity to create something exciting, and finally to be always grateful. I wish my work may serve as a creative influence driving values that I believe in.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First I would take them to Cardiff Reef for the dawn patrol, then get breakfast at Coffee Coffee in Encinitas. I would recommend visiting the Salk Institute in La Jolla, the Geisel Library and the tiny blue house “Fallen star” made by the artist Do Ho Sue on the campus of UCSD. For any music or comedy shows I would recommend The Observatory and The Irenic in North Park and the Belly Up in Solana Beach. I would advise them to stop at the farmer market in Leucadia for fresh and tasty food, then to go to Lone Flag shop for its beautiful objects and smooth atmosphere. For any surfy mood, I will definitely say to stop at Univ, Bing Surfboards and Surfy Surfy shop. For amazing muffins I would bring them to Pannikin, and for good burgers I would recommend the Solace in Encinitas and Hodad’s in Downtown SD. The best way to hang out is to go for a walk, make a picnic or a bonfire on the beach watching the sunset. I would advise them to surf every beautiful spot the area offers, to wake up early in order to enjoy the sweet Californian skies and to have a dip in the wild ocean. Finally I would recommend grabbing a peanut butter shake and taking the 101 to drive all along the coast. It might be insignificant, but for the French Swiss person I am, it sounds glamorous!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First of all, I say thank you to my parents and grandparents for sharing with me the passion for creativity since my youngest age. I grew up in a family of creative minds representing the fifth generation working in graphic arts. I always received a lot of support, understanding, love, encouragement, advice and excitement for what I do. My husband for his everyday love and support, for his confidence and encouragement to challenge myself to grow up in my work. My sister for her inspiration, her love and precious advice. I also thank God for giving me a creative and inspired mind, for helping me everyday to find my way, and finally for being my main support and source of strength. This is the main crew I would always be grateful for!

Website: https://www.naomigallay.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naomigallay/?hl=fr

Image Credits
©TimCachot

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