Yesterday, I featured the artwork of Guady Ramon, a graphic designer, illustrator, and mother of two based in Southern California. Today, I want to profile this talented artist, who shared with me that her work is “inspired by motherhood and the universal experiences we share as mothers.” Can you imagine any better fit for my Women of Substance series? I have routinely and often tearfully been overwhelmed and spirited on by the encouragement and camaraderie of the mothers who read and comment on this blog, many of whom have come to my rescue over matters as disparate as how to muddle through the weaning phase and how to model reading in the era of screen dominance (see comments!), and so I know that many of you will respond enthusiastically to this creative and her work.
Guady explained that her aesthetic approach is “to capture a moment in time and tell a story in its most simplistic form using minimal shapes and color.” That simplicity of composition underscores the shared experience of motherhood — the silhouette of a mother and child in embrace that so many of us have shared — in a profound, stirring way that has left me digging through her archives on several afternoons over the past few months.
Guady also told me that “becoming a mother has been one of the toughest, most rewarding things I’ve ever done. My children are the reason I get to do what I love.” I love the way she framed her children in that expression, as both reason and reward.
Below, get to know Guady a bit better through her answers to my questionnaire, or follow her on Instagram.
Your favorite qualities in a woman. I admire a woman that speaks her truth.
Your favorite heroine. Andie Walsh in “Pretty in Pink.”
Your main fault. I’ve been called a dreamer a few times. I always have big dreams and romanticize most things.
Your greatest strength. I’m adaptable. And I think I’m pretty easy to be around.
Your idea of happiness. Slowing down and spending more time with my kids. It’s all going by way too fast.
Your idea of misery. Never finding the joy in the little things.
Currently at the top of your shopping lust list. An organic pillow, because mom needs more sleep.
Desert island beauty product. True Botanicals pure radiance oil.
Last thing you bought. Stasher bags!
I feel most empowered wearing… Levis jeans, boots, and a white tee.
Favorite Magpie post. To the new mom feeding her baby at 3:11 A.M.
P.S. Recent autumn/winter clothing finds for children.
P.P.S. Holiday gifts and stocking stuffers for children.