Art Is... a podcast for artists

Welcome to Art Is... Season 6, Episode 8

Episode Overview:

From her roots in Ojai, California, artist Leslie Clark (Nomad Gal) shares her transformative 30-year journey that immersed her in the nomadic communities of Niger. Through candid conversation, Leslie reveals how her artistic path took her from the South of France through South America and Ethiopia, ultimately leading to Niger, where she spent 15 years living and painting with nomadic communities.

Key Topics Covered:

- Early artistic journey at art school and travels through France, Central & South America, and Ethiopia

- Life-changing encounter with Niger's nomadic communities in 1993

- Evolution of artistic practice through cultural immersion

- Historical context of regions and communities, Niger/Libya after fall of Gaddafi

- Founding and mission of the Nomad Foundation, beginning with the purchase of a single cow for $200 and evolving into an organization that has positively impacted tens of thousands of people

- Building sustainable opportunities while preserving traditions, especially for midwives and traditional healthcare providers

- Her personal transformation and experiences as a privileged minority

- Navigating colonial legacy and cultural appropriation in art

- Approach to respectful cultural exchange and representation

- Building authentic relationships versus 'othering’ communities

- Her upcoming book

Conclusion:

Leslie's story embodies the transformative power of art and cultural exchange. Her adventurous spirit and deep connection to nomadic communities offer a refreshing perspective in our digitally saturated world. Through her forthcoming book and the Nomad Foundation's work, she continues to bridge worlds and create meaningful change. As she notes: "I am an artist/painter who has always traveled. When I first met the nomads in Niger in 1993, my life changed - it changed the way I painted and the way I looked at the world. Since then I have built a home in this adopted country where I spend part of every year and founded a non-profit called the Nomad Foundation which tries to bring opportunity to nomadic people while respecting their traditions." Her advice to young artists resonates with timeless wisdom: don't be afraid, and progress through small, incremental steps.

Connect with Leslie