Meet Dessa Nichols | Artist & DJ

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

Hi Dessa, why did you pursue a creative career?
Because I did not want to lose my soul in a corporate world ruled by patriarchal rules and regulations. As an Asian American, I have been discriminated and marginalized in every workplace situation my entire adulthood.

Except for one creative agency in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. They took me in and taught me what genuine camaraderie is. To this day I am proud to have been part of a family called Creative Bearings.

I pursued a career to be creative because I wanted to meet like-minded and soul driven individuals. Sometimes it happens once in a lifetime and when it does, cherish every moment.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I think in this current climate, artists should be talking less about themselves and more about their story and how they want to impact society. As an artist right now during this pandemic there has been more downs than ups, but it has helped me refocus my attention to the bigger picture. If one is an advocate for a specific community that wants to do good (or the right thing), then they should also be an advocate for all marginalized and discriminated communities. To create is to invoke emotion in us. The best we can do is to be genuine to ourselves and one another. I can’t wait to see this world really come together for the sake of the future.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Colorado is a prime spot for outdoor activities. On any given day you could go hiking a 14’er then having a nice dinner at a couple of my favorite places, Sushi Den or Uchi. The Med in Boulder is great for delicious food, drinks and perfect for outdoor dining. Although the beloved institution is now closed, I would always suggest The Med in Boulder. Afternoon tea at the Brown Palace is also a must. Rent a mountain bike at a local shop or paddle boarding on most lakes. Carter Lake is a such a fun place to bring the dog too. And before I giveaway all my secret spots, Rent a boat and bring a picnic at the Lake Estes Marina. My best friends always have the best time when they come to town!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Besides thanking my husband for his unconditional love & support, the author Julia Cameron really got me out of a pandemic blues funk! The Artist’s Way was a full sensory experience. Take myself out on an artist date? Why, yes. Yes, please! She really encourages everyone to just think outside of the box with no fear or judgement. Taking care of our inner child helps us stay true to one another. As we become adults (while harnessing our inner child,) we need a little help along the way. That is also why I would love to thank everyone in the mental health community. Therapy is so important for human survival, especially during the pandemic and the cultural shifts we are all experiencing.

Website: http://dessadesigns.com/

Instagram: instagram.com/dessadesignsco

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dessa-nichols/

Image Credits
Personal photo by: Ryan Francisco