Meet Olivia Inkster

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

Hi Olivia, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic and creative career path, because, in my soul, I felt that I couldn’t authentically succeed at anything else. I’d be lying. I struggle with-albeit cliche and often overused-imposter syndrome. But, anything other than journalism, writing, styling, and creating (whether editorial looks or mixed media art) would have entailed impersonating someone who wasn’t me. And, quite possibly, someone I felt pressured to be, stemming from my insecurities about failing at the things I truly loved. I feared that failure. But, I had to let that all go.

My family members had all been successful, and frankly, they had all chosen “wisely”–professions that were logical, financially sound, and all-around predictable. Intelligence plus education plus hard work and dedication equated to success–personally, professionally, and financially in those realms. They encouraged me, obviously, to choose another direction. But, I’m stubborn and headstrong. Against all logic and reason, I went with my gut. I could have avoided some of the pain, heartbreak, and rejection, but I’d have lost so much more if I hadn’t made this choice. I’d have missed the journey. The journey is my story.

Looking back, I took a risk, because I felt like if I wasn’t writing, if I wasn’t chasing passion, I would never be fulfilled in my head, heart, and soul. I chose to risk failure, and that was freeing. I wanted to speak for myself, of course, but for others. To connect. To provide a link and a spark that would ignite something in another human being. That’s what I actually consider my “career.” I create sparks. Sparks represent energy, and energy can never be destroyed; it can only be transferred. I’ll finish by deferring to Albert Einstein who said, “Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds. The mediocre mind is incapable of understanding the man who refuses to bow blindly to conventional prejudices and chooses instead to express his opinions courageously and honestly.”

I made a choice. You have one right now. Take it and make it yours.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
feel that I combine professionalism with quirkiness and a relatable quality. Whether I’m writing a persuasive argument on a political position, or I’m styling women I know for the job interview of their dreams, there’s a message. There’s always a message. I deliver it with intention and a sly nod. Come sit by me. I’m a storyteller, and I do that through fashion, creating clothing and jewelry, reporting, researching, editing, writing, painting, and styling. I have empathy and connection to my fellow humans. Simultaneously, because of my knowledge/personal experience combination, a fiery rage has been ignited in me to fight against injustice, cruelty, homophobia, abuse, bigotry, racism, and prejudice of any kind. Awareness: Stand up; stand out. Speak up; Speak out.

Nothing about my journey to where I sit today has been easy. From the moment I could speak, I began telling stories. A few years later, I was documenting them (fun fact: I never learned how to hold my pen/pencil properly and still write with my right hand like a left-handed human). I entered a thirty-page story about a frog into a Disney Channel nationwide contest I saw advertised and fully knew that I would or should win. I didn’t, heartbreakingly, but my mother read about every draft I wrote before I mailed it in (yes, mailed!), and she made me believe that I was the best. Bless her. Despite that early mass-printed rejection letter from Disney, I didn’t cease writing; I evolved with age, trying new mediums and exploring various forms of nonfiction and creative writing. I joined the literary magazine in high school and was voted in as the senior poetry editor, and that’s when I was encouraged by my AP English to take this craft seriously post-graduation. I did just that upon entering college and choosing a major. (Thank you to Ms. Garrison and Mrs. Natalie Parker-Lawrence. You made the difference in my life, challenging me to grow and hone my skills. )

Early on, I covered the courthouse beat and controversially, wrote about the complicated state of gun law affairs in Tennessee. Those brought praise with backlash. I also wrote for the university papers. I was never afraid, though, in spite of the opposition when I took stances on polarizing issues. I tried to represent the spectrum of real people. I may not have always succeeded, but I believe in the power of journalism. True journalism. I dove in.

Moving on, I had a fulfilling career in New York City, where I began at W magazine in the styling department at a young age. Eventually, after paying my dues with errand work and minute tasks, I was regularly attending and writing about New York Fashion Week, Tribeca Film Festival, SXSW, book signings, fashion collection previews, etc. I don’t love the word “critic,” but I gave my opinions. Some people listened. I continued to branch out–I was even a ghostwriter on a few major songs, which I pulled from my poetry. On the side, I created my website, “Those Kinds of Girls.” That was a labor of love, but it was mine and only mine. I covered anything from metallic boots to mental health. I wrote a book, which had a few bites, but it was never ultimately published. The universe seemed to have aligned for me, merging many of the vast and varied interests of mine. It was all happening…until it wasn’t.

To be honest, everything came to a halt. The writing, the styling, the creating, my brand, and everything I touched. It crumbled slowly and disintegrated into the ground below. I struggled with mental health, severe depression, panic, anxiety, self-esteem, self-harm, physical issues, alcohol abuse, and toxic relationships that led not just to verbal and emotional abuse but domestic violence as well. There were more dark, complex issues occurring, and I found myself in shelters, and at one point, homeless. Completely isolated, shunned, and ashamed. I hope someone reading this knows that they are not alone in whatever his/her/their battle might be. I guarantee you, I’ve seen it, felt it, and dealt with it. I lost my spark. I contemplated suicide daily, But, I sought help. My journey toward health was not linear. It took many years. But, I’ve rediscovered my passion and purpose again–this isn’t just a profession. I’m a writer and a stylist in every aspect of life. I’m here to shed light on the good, bad, ugly, and everything in between. We have to acknowledge the pain in order to heal. For me, that’s through writing and aiding others in doing so as well.

I can’t stress enough–In every way, reach out. Reach out to me or anyone near you. Write about it. Create about it. Also, check on others! We’re all human. One of the ultimate goals in life is to be of service to others. If you’re lucky enough to feel well today, show your gratitude by passing it on to another.

Silence is the enemy. It comes to steal, destroy, and kill.

I want to and choose to represent light. I’ve emerged from the darkness. I have a story. You do too. I’d love to help you share it. I encourage expression in every way, in every day. Replacing “I” with “WE” transforms “Illness” into “WEllness.” Ask questions. Contribute. Discuss.

Words are powerful.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Wow. Atlanta is huge! So, let me rattle off a few places and activities near me.

Check out Roswell, GA–Historical homes to visit–Including Barrington Hall, Bulloch Hall (Theodore Roosevelt’s mother’s house), and The Smith Plantation (Still beautifully standing since the 1800s), stroll down adorable Canton Street, view the art galleries, and eat lunch at The Mill (Shrimp ‘n grits are some of the best I’ve ever had!) At night, they have a walking historical ghost tour around the town square. Your Downtown Roswell Restaurant | The Mill Kitchen and Bar

The Chattahoochee River runs all along Roswell, as well as neighboring towns, so you can always rent a kayak, bring a tube, and enjoy the cool water and sights! The Chattahoochee Nature Reserve is fun for families, with outdoor and indoor exhibits.

Hike the East Palisades Trail in Sandy Springs–there’s even The Bamboo Forest, AND you can stay in the Atlanta Alpaca Tree House (seen on “Love is Blind” and “World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals”–really ). Atlanta Alpaca Treehouse

Dinner (and drinks?) at The Select in Sandy Springs. The French Onion Soup beat Bobby Flay’s, and everything else is equally delicious, plus the presentation and atmosphere are killer! It’s a beautiful spot to meet or bring anyone special. I enjoy going during happy hour and trying out their fresh ceviche, cheese board, and several other appetizers (They have early bird specials for apps!). The Select – New American restaurant in Sandy Springs, GA (theselectatl.com)

I love the Atlanta Beltline- 22 miles of unused railroad track circling the core of the city! Grab a coffee and walk a part or portion. You can take a walking tour (Trees Atlanta). You can bike. There are dining options available. It offers a lot with new eateries and activities springing up each day! Atlanta BeltLine // Where Atlanta Comes Together.

Plan a visit to the High Museum of Art, featuring paintings, sculptures, ceramics, folk art, African art, and so on! Welcome to the High Museum – High Museum of Art

Drive through the Krog Street tunnel, and then stop and park to walk and admire the inspiring artwork on huge displays. If you’re feeling artsy, stop at any crafts store (or, if you must…Walmart), grab a spray paint can, and make your mark in the tunnel! Don’t worry-it’s legal! The graffiti is mind-blowing.

Shop at The Avalon in Alpharetta or The West End (for high-end clothing, accessories, furniture, and gifts) Your guide to exploring Atlanta’s historic West End (accessatlanta.com), OR head to Little Five Points for shopping, a quick bite, live music and shows, or drinks. Junkman’s Daughter has been a staple of mine since I was a teenager for thrifted items. Criminal Records is a must for…well, records, duh! Little Five Points | Your guide to Atlanta’s favorite neighborhood.

I’d also recommend staying at The Hotel at Avalon in Alpharetta (It’s gorgeous, and the restaurant is superb–lobster bisque is worth the trip alone!). The Hotel At Avalon, Autograph Collection by Marriott – Guest Reservations
OR
Nobu Hotel (And, do I even need to point out the landmark, world-famous restaurant?!). Nobu Atlanta | Japanese Restaurant | Bar & Lounge » Nobu Restaurants

Hit Aisle 5, Northside Tavern (iconic dive blues bar!), and City Winery (wine + patio!) for live music to wind down.

Also, shoutout to friends of Bill W! Hit Triangle Club or 8111 for free coffee and donuts!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe so much to so many. I want to give more than I take always in all ways in this life.

I’ll always send a shoutout to my family, first and foremost. Dealing with and supporting an eclectic writer, who since birth has often made some controversial choices and spoken unpopular opinions, makes for some interesting stories. Their dedication, belief in me, and unconditional love through the agony and the ecstasy bring me to tears. Looking over the years, I feel undeserving, humbled, and grateful.

The authors whose works changed my life: Victor Hugo, Stephen King, Shel Silverstein (ha!), F. Scott Fitzgerald, Sylvia Plath, Oscar Wilde, Hemingway, Madeleine L’Engle (Tesseracts!), and many, many more.

I am forever indebted to my fellow women of integrity, bravery, strength, and talent! From women writers, suffragettes, trendsetters, artists, feminists, athletes, and icons throughout history and modern times. I’ll begin with Joan of Arc. You can fill in the blanks.

In terms of living with style and courage, Gloria Steinem, Bella Abzug, Betty Friedan, and Alice Roosevelt Longworth are all MAJOR sources of inspiration for me. They spoke, wrote, and lived their lives with flare and little concern for their reputations. They stood for something. That, to me, is one heck of a stylish legacy to leave. Alice Roosevelt Longworth’s father, Theodore Roosevelt, is known for his powerful statement, “Speak softly, and carry a big stick.”

Bella Abzug, a political and social hero of mine, reimagined this quote and updated it by saying, “Women have been trained to speak softly and carry a lipstick. Those days are over.” Well, Bella nailed it. Except, I still believe in, wear, and carry a lipstick or two with me wherever my feet take me.

Lipstick and a pen: my two weapons of choice.

Website: www.NoKillMag.com

Instagram: @OliviaInksterCreates

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-inkster-8a7a675/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/missolivia.inkster/

Other: https://www.ladygunn.com/?s=olivia+inkster