What’s not to love about artist Lisa Congdon? Her bright, exuberant aesthetic is infused with a clear commitment to feminism and inclusion. “People need hope,” says Congdon, who relocated from San Francisco to Portland, OR, a few years back to be closer to family, and for a slower pace of life with her wife, Clay Walsh. Congdon’s body of work—including books like Art, Inc.: The Essential Guide to Building Your Career as an Artist, REI’s “Force of Nature” gender-equality campaign, and her celebrated “Protect the Vulnerable” image that became emblematic of the Women’s March—is ubiquitous. And it’s considerable enough to fill a whole retail store, which she opened in North Portland’s Industrial Row in October. From the cheerful pink assemblage above her counter to the glass display of one-of-a-kind art pieces to the cavalcade of beautifully arranged shiny objects, it’s a warm, inviting space. “People say it makes them happy,” Congdon says of her eponymous shop that doubles as her studio. Lately, Congdon’s been using her platform to support women running for political office, trans women of color, and an LGBT youth leadership camp called Brave Trails. Whether it’s through art or activism—or both—Congdon is continually putting more beauty into the world. Below are her personally curated picks from her shop (most of which are also available at lisacongdon.etsy.com). ?
"Begin Anyhow" Journal ($9)
"Who doesn't love a journal that reminds you each time you open it that you get to start again?"
"A Glorious Freedom: Older Women Leading Extraordinary Lives" by Lisa Congdon ($19.95)
"This book is a celebration of women who hit their stride at a later age and are doing amazing things."
"Protect the Vulnerable" Art Print ($42)
"This 11x14-inch print is a reminder to defend the rights and freedoms of the most vulnerable in our society right now."
Hand-Painted Wooden Houses ($60 to $150, available only in-stores)
"I love painting simple, minimalist wooden houses. Each one is unique with different combinations of graphic color and symbols."
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"I Can't Even" Cat Sticker Set ($5)
"Sassy cats. That is all."
By Korina Devincenzi
Photographed by Chris Dibble
This article originally appeared in the March/April 2019 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!
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