Meet Thea Genet | Artist & Ecologist

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

Hi Thea, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
I am inspired greatly by my field of study: ecology.
Ecology is the study of relationships between organisms and their environment, and the levels of interconnectedness in the natural world.
I feel that studying nature can teach us a lot, even about ourselves. I also feel that oftentimes scientists are not the best communicators to the public. I think that there is a great opportunity for the arts to be that missing link in communicating scientific information to the public.
I am inspired by young people who are activists for their communities in topics of social justice and climate change, and some of my artwork reflects their work in an attempt to make their stories more well known.
I like to use art as a way to start conversation and bring people together.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My biggest projects have been public mural displays, often with environmental messaging.
I believe that making art is about making commentary, and this means that often you can be met with critics. But I always try to remember, and remind others, that every piece of art can’t be for everyone. And having a variety of works in the world conveying different messages is what makes it interesting. Art is a way for us to stay open-minded in perceiving reality. I want my art to start a dialogue. It’s more important to me that someone walks away from my art thinking something new, than it is they remember my name.

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.
Atlanta
To get exercise and get outside: the silver comet trail, the belt line, and even the greenway north of Atlanta. I’ve seen some great examples of native plants and strong ecosystems that I love to teach others about on these locations. My friends and I have a blast biking/rollerblading/skateboarding whenever and wherever we can.
Definitely check out the music venues in Atlanta to see what’s going on – my uncle used to play at Venkmans some evenings and their grilled cheese & tomato soup is amazing.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The Alpharetta Arts Center has provided me with opportunities as a professional artist since high school, and I’m really grateful for their support. They’ve also helped me become an active member of the community and feel engaged in city decision-making.

Website: https://www.tmgenetmedia.com/

Instagram: @tmgenetmedia

Image Credits
Hannah Fralick
Allyson Mann