Interview Twenty: Remi

In our latest interview, written by Tara, we talked to Remi (@stickyfeminist) about her sticker company that focuses on empowering women and spreading awareness on various global issues. She discussed her sticker making process, from where she draws art inspiration, how she balances completing school-work and being an entrepreneur, as well as many other insights. 

courtesy of @stickyfeminist

Question one: Thank you for sharing with us your passion to create stickers for change, Remi! In introducing your company, you’d mentioned that the two main focuses are women empowerment and “..spreading awareness about global issues”. What is your mission, and how did the idea of involving activism in your art come to you? What are the other global issues that you hope to address on your page? 
Our mission as a brand is to firstly empower women. Secondly we want to help spread the idea of equality and educate those around us. The idea of involving activism in these stickers was more of a marketing idea. I was contemplating what would sell and what was trendy right now. Then I realized everyone loves stickers and I can easily put my own twist on them. We have addressed several global issues through our stickers, but in the future I hope to touch on Islamophobia, Equality for people with Disabilities and Xenophobia. 

Question two: Talk us through your sticker-making process. From where do you draw inspiration for designs?

My sticker making process is the most fun. I often ask for ideas on instagram and do research. Then I sketch out a design. After my sketch looks good I draw it out and color it on my ipad. This is the most time consuming part, but the most rewarding. 

Question three: “I hope to spread positivity, one sticker at a time.” This statement embodies your work, and surely your creations are changing the environment around us. One thing we’re curious about, is why did you pick stickers to channel your advocacy through? Have you always found pleasure in making stickers, or has it become a recent hobby? 
Making stickers was never ever something on my radar. I've always loved art and expressing myself but I'd never tried to make stickers before. This whole process has been a completely new one to me. And I find myself having to take chances and wing it a lot of the time. But it's teaching me certain values and skills i know i'll need in the future and for that i'm grateful. 
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Question four: What are some of your favorite Instagram accounts that are also weaving artistry and activism together?
Some of my favorite activism accounts for politics, equality and feminism are: @Feminist, @chnge, @feministhood, @berniesanders. And my favs for environmentalism, body positivity and a few random topics are: @peta, @werenotreallystrangers, @tringsby, @macyeleni.
 
Question five: Spreading much-needed awareness through art forms is so powerful. Do you believe that making art related to important global issues somehow sensitizes people to the injustice of our moment?
absolutely. I believe that people seeing activism in large numbers makes it seem so much more real. It is powerful to see art like this with such strong sayings on them. And it helps get the message across. 
 
Question six: What are your goals for @/stickyfeminist? Where can people find and support your work?
 My goals for Sticky Feminist are so up in the air. I never ever thought I’d make it this far or gain this much support, I am so grateful. So my only hope for the future is that no matter where this account takes me, I hope I continue to make activism a big part of my life. And I hope that sticky fem continues to be a safe space for everyone regardless of our differences. You can follow my personal journey @rrremianaa and of course you can follow us on our business account @stickyfeminist and make sure to check out our shop!

Question seven: What are some small but productive ways for people without the means to buy your stickers to increase your engagement and help grow your page?
Right now our economy is going through the ringer so I know it's unfair to ask people to constantly buy stc=ickes. There are much more important things. We appreciate when we get likes and comments and of course reposts. We also love when people share their ideas with us and share our account with family and friends. 

Question eight: How do you balance running your company and completing school-work?

Being a teenager and being in high school is super hard and it's tough to find a balance between all the things I want to do and all of my obligations. I try to be super diligent with my time management. I don't like to waste time. Other than that I try to get enough rest and drink plenty of water to make sure I'm feeling the freshest and sharpest I can. But to be honest there are those days where i just want to scream and cry and have a stressful meltdown or a casual panic attack. And sometimes I do. It is all one huge learning experience. Mid-day dance parties definitely help.

Question nine:  Is there anything else you’d like to share? If not, I’d love to thank you for your time and enlightenment! 
Lastly I just want to wish everyone a magical day and a safe week :)

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