We had the good fortune of connecting with Erica Dunlap and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erica, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
One of the main reasons I chose to pursue a creative career was the sheer joy I receive from seeing something I thought or dreamed about become a tangible thing. Something that others could see and enjoy is an added bonus for me. Even if they don’t like it, the fact that they took the time to experience it, is my joy.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I like to call myself a creative because what I do goes beyond one label. I began writing short stories and poems. Then I elevated to stages and plays. I eventually fell in love with the camera and added my love of fashion to start a unique photography presence. I then took my photography and created digital art called The Goddess Home Collection to fulfill my dream of wanting to see my version of art adorned in peoples homes. In addition to this, I am working on a fashion line named in honor of my Mother to get all of thee ideas out of my head and into the atmosphere. Setting out to do anything isn’t easy. It may appear to be if someone is looking at it from the outside, but pushing past your fear to do new things will always be courageous in my book. The biggest obstacle is always YOU, and once you find a way to master your thoughts, then you can do anything you desire. One of my biggest takeaways from this? I am worthy to dream and to manifest those dreams. To some it may look haphazard, but its been on my list for 44 years and i owe it to me, to see all the possibilities. I want the world to know that my brand and story is one of resilience, wisdom, and Major influence to be free.

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.

Besides having a personalized photo session with me, we would hit Evelyn & Olive for some amazing Jamaican eats. Then Orijennal Art gallery for a flood of black art by black artists. We would bar hop in downtown to try signature drinks and good blues music. No trip to Memphis is complete without some world famous BBQ from Cozy Corner. We would finale the week with good food from my kitchen, a few friends, and tons of laughs. Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I dedicate all of my success to those that love me. My Mother who lived to give me the best and left me on earth with her spirit and love. My husband, who supports me and understands me as a creative. Who gives me space when I need it and nudges me forward when I get tired. My daughter, for giving me a reason to show her that the only way you will know if a thing works, is to do it and see if it sticks. I’m blessed to have a strong supporting squad of friends who don’t blow smoke, but push me to face my demons and set goals that create results. They are my village!

Website: www.ericadunlap.com and www.thegoddesshomecollection.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericadunlapphotography

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ArekahtheGoddessPhoto

Other: https://www.instagram.com/wanchywisdom https://www.facebook.com/WanchyWisdom

Image Credits
Makeup by E’Jae Coleman www.facesbyejae.com Photography by Jourdan Leatherwood of Erica Dunlap Photography www.ericadunlap.com

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