Interview: Kimberly Adamis
Luca Curci talks with Kimberly Adamis during ROME INTERNATIONAL ART FAIR 2021, at Medina Art Gallery.

Kimberly Adamis is an LA-based photographer/artist whose work spans over multiple media. During the recent summers (pre-COVID) she’s been traveling with Ann Wilson and the HEART Love Alive Tour 2019 as their exclusive tour photographer. When home she spends her time exploring other aspects of the art world. If she’s not photographing other musical artists or shooting art portraiture you can find her tucked away in her studio painting, drawing, or exploring new mediums. Her work has been displayed at “LOS ANGELES CENTER FOR DIGITAL ART” where she’s had Solo & Group exhibits. Her photo art is currently on exhibit at the ROME INTERNATIONAL ART FAIR 2021 at Medina Art Gallery. You can also find her work in top publications, concert books, fashion videos, and on record covers and tour t-shirts, as well on the walls of many homes and places of business.

Luca Curci – What is art for you?
Kimberly Adamis – For me, art is something I feel, taste, smell, see and hear. I believe art is everywhere if we allow ourselves to slow down and take it all in. Prior to 2020, I was out on the road as a tour photographer for the band HEART (as well as other musical artists). I traveled to 53 cities in 3 months, tasted their local foods, shot photos of different venues and heard amazing music every night. I soaked in art in many forms. I truly believe that’s what fed my soul and helped me create in 2020.

LC – What are you currently working on?
KA – Well, this is a tough question. I’m ALWAYS working on so many projects, but here are three recent creations I’m currently devoting my attention to: 1. As mentioned above, I’m a photographer and artist so my work spans over many genres. From 2017 to 2019 I spent months every year shooting photos of many musical artists (Heart, Brandi Carlile, Elle King, Sheryl Crow, Santana, Edgar Winter, Lucie Silvas & More) so I’m currently gathering my favorites to prepare for a showcase of my photos and create new photo art “ON TOUR & BEHIND THE SCENES” Photography. 2. During 2020 I began a series of large canvas paintings. My goal is to fine-tune them and present them to the world in 2022. 3. Gather and curate all my favorite Street Photography. This is an ongoing project.

LC – Which is the role the artist plays in society? And contemporary art?
KA – I believe all art is crucial in society. If consumed with true honesty and interest I believe it can shape society into thought-provoking beings. The key is grabbing a viewer’s attention long enough so they can escape and see something inside themselves or just float, think and wonder; a mental vacation of sorts. Art can also stir an emotion that may be uncomfortable or even blissful. With that said, I believe this can only happen when one is willing to take a moment from their normal consciousness to give it a chance to take them on an emotional journey. Whether it’s a good or bad feeling, the point is “feeling”. I truly feel we all need to “feel” more and from different perspectives so we can appreciate others more. Contemporary Art can send powerful messages for us to see sides of ourselves and others. Again, it can only be achieved by diving in, shutting out distractions and really paying attention.

LC – Where do you find your inspiration?
KA – My inspiration can come from the obvious, i.e. nature, cityscapes, travel, etc. but mostly from random things. I love studying faces. I love staring at people walking by in whatever city I’m in. I also love how light can hit an ordinary object in an extraordinary way. That inspires me. Also silence. Silence inspires me in a big way.

LC – What is the most challenging part about creating your artworks?
KA – Sleep. When I get started on a project I want to continue without interruption. If I could physically stay up for days, I would. But I have to have my 8 hours or I’m a zombie. Fortunately, my life partner/fiance is an artist too (musician/producer) so he not only gets it, he encourages me to dig deep and work until my fingers fall off.

LC – What do you think about the concept of this exhibition? How did it inspire you?
KA – I loved the concept of this exhibition “Mixed Identities” was perfect for the PhotoArt I had created. It’s exactly what I was trying to translate into my art. It really seemed like a match made in heaven, I took it as a sign, already titled for me.

LC – What is the message linked to the artwork you have shown in this event? How is it connected to the theme of the entire exhibition?
KA – I feel the main message in the pieces I submitted is to remind ourselves that we have a voice. We have so many roles as people and in all these identities lies a human, worthy of being heard. Standing strong and feeling validated is what I hope is translated.

LC – Do you think ITSLIQUID GROUP can represent an opportunity for artists?
KA – Absolutely. So far what I have experienced is a genuine love for art and artists. The publicity I have received is growing due to this show and I hope to participate in more exhibits in the future.

LC – Did you enjoy cooperating with us?
KA – Yes, very much so. All involved have been extremely communicative and friendly, as well as true professionals. I’m proud to be working with them and feel well-represented.