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

Hi Phoenix, have you built meaningful relationships at networking events? What makes you want to connect with someone, and what are things people do that make you want to steer clear?
When their vibe feels authentic and the first thing out of their mouth isn’t a pitch but more of conversation sharing interests. If your bragging about everything you do ,who you know and what you feel you can do for me before I have a second sip of my drink my Fake Player Alert tells me to walk away.

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.
Wearable art created by upcycled garments and materials has no boundaries . I have always had a visual point of you about self expression. Being conscious of all the waste and the strangling of the planet. I enjoy merging fabrics , materials and textiles to create wearable pieces of art. Denim is one of my favorite fabrics. Is it easy having an independent label and the only employee is you ? No. In fact my heart crys hard sometimes to get to the other side of struggle. Being honest and pursuing my passion has opened up amazing relationships with the South Florida Arts community. Friends and family have pushed me to continue because failure is not an option. With the world at a standstill presently we all have a chance to reboot , eliminate and connect to make the world a better place. If there is one thing about me it is I’m a risk taker and believer of all things being possible. Together we can change the vibration for our new normal what ever that might be. Let’s be kind , creative and positive and listen to what the universe is telling us.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Fort Lauderdale Beach and The Elbow Room

Wynood is a great place to enjoy a cultural infusion of art and food.

Mass District and Fat Village are fun eclectic spots for local artists , exhibits and interesting eateries.
ArtServe and some of the Zero Empty Spaces artist studios really nurture your spirit with all of the creativity and talent.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce’s Jenny DeBorja for welcoming and connecting me with the community . Artserve and Arts United Tedd Davis for the amazing opportunities to feature my work. #Choose954 and Las Olas Capital Arts along with the talented South Florida Artists that I have collaborated with. Community matters and connecting with like minded people has made my journey amazing

Website: www.skirtzophrenic.com
Instagram: Skirtzophrenic
Facebook: Skirtzophrenic

Image Credits
Paul McDermott Photography Models : Ashley Grant Leo the Libra