Kayten Schmidt, Artist, Photographer, and Creative Consultant (Los Angeles)

On place

I think, from an early age, I have struggled with Place—meaning I never felt and still don’t feel like I was or am in the right one. I still slip into that thinking from time to time, although I know it is probably a red herring for some area of discontent. I don't identify with a place of origin, but I do feel rooted in Los Angeles having lived here so long. The true joy of traveling to vastly different cultural locations is surrendering to the novel experience and the perspective shift. I love not knowing, I love being confused, delighted, disoriented, and in awe of a different culture, different language, and different scenery. Humbled by the learning
experience.

On spiritual protection

I think a main theme or value that I have cultivated from a young age is resistance to the status quo. To not be swayed or influenced by what the majority of other people are doing, be it having children, getting plastic surgery, buying certain things, working 80-hour weeks... Being outwardly motivated by others and the media will keep you exhausted and unhappy. I hope to encourage through my friendships and my work that you can have your own opinions, and you can choose what is exciting and beautiful. You don't have to be a huge rebel, you just have to think and feel for yourself, be open-minded, and think critically and err towards kindness.


Photography by Anna Ritsch
Styling by Carolina Orrico