“Paradise Inside” is a series curated during the 2020 covid-19 pandemic.
What started off as an exploration of digital creativity, became a breath of fresh air during lockdown. This then became a a project which enabled us to connect with models/influencers through FaceTime. “Paradise Inside” captures one in their own realm in the comfort of their home with interviews that further encourage a space of conversation of evaluation and hope.
Kenya Brown.
Photography by Joel Smedley.
Creative Direction by Kiran Mariya.
“This period, when the world is basically on pause, I’ve actually had time to re-evaluate what I want to achieve and who I want to be.”
– Kenya Brown.
What is keeping you motivated during this time?
Honestly, at the beginning, I found it really hard to stay motivated. I’m someone who needs routine and to keep busy, and found the lack of structure difficult. Luckily I am in isolation with my mum, sister and sister’s partner. Probably the three most motivated people I know. They have been exercising, baking, painting, planning for the future all whilst still working from home. Seeing them adapt to this new way of living has really encouraged me to do the same. They have taught me to not stress about things you can’t control and instead manage how you react to it.
What interests would you say you have been able to explore during this period?
I love to play piano and sing, i started having lessons when I was 7. But with travelling for work so much I rarely have time to actually sit down and practise. I now have the opportunity to finally finish songs I wrote a year or two ago. Even if no one ends up hearing any of it, I love being able to have that creative outlet.
What have you learnt about yourself during this period?
I’ve learnt that before having to stay inside, I often looked at life day to day and never really that far into the future. This period, when the world is basically on pause, I’ve actually had time to re-evaluate what I want to achieve and who I want to be. I never want to look back when I’m old and think I could have done more. Physically, I have learnt that I need to exercise to keep my mental health in check. Even just for an hour in the morning or a fast walk, it’s so important.
Once quarantine is over, where is the one place you’d like to go?
I would love to go for brunch with my closest friends for a much needed catch up. Super simple, but I miss hugging them and laughing with them. And there’s nowhere better to do that than over avocado toast and socially acceptable day drinking.
