Today we’d like to introduce you to Ktwo LeMew.
Ktwo LeMew, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I am a professional performer/artist who has dabbled in all kinds of alternative art practices. I have a passion for sex work and feminism and that tends to show in my performances and art. I graduated with my BFA from USF in May 2018 and since then, I have continued to perform as my main source of income. I am a gogo dancer, burlesque entertainer, and fire flow artist. Through the formative years of my art practices, I have learned the art of many studio-based skills, but have become most interested in piercing, photography, and performance art.
Has it been a smooth road?
No journey in my life has ever been ‘smooth’ sailing, whether that be because of my own failures/insecurities, or because of the hurdles, others have thrown in my path. I have been rejected by many gigs and people based on everything from my looks, to my very unapologetic and fierce presence. I have been in an abusive relationship that nearly made me fail out of college, but also taught me to value myself more than anyone else. Through all of the bad things that have happened in my life, I still persisted. And because of that, I am still working to make my dreams come true every damn day.
The advice I would give to other young women who are just starting their journey is to first love and believe in yourself. You may meet people who try to break you apart from every step of the way, but as long as you have that core of self-belief and love, you will ALWAYS be able to build yourself up and come back stronger. People will try to distract you from your goals, but you have to remember that you are living this life for YOU. You have to always look out for your best interest and stick to your gut. That is the only way you will truly reach for the stars and live your dreams.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I am a photographer, gogo dancer, burlesque entertainer, and fire flow artist. From an artistic point, I am most well known for my piercing portraits and my light photography.
What sets me apart from others is that I work in a variety of subjects that may seem taboo or alternative to most fine art practices. I live my life in a very fierce and loud way, and I believe that my art reflects that.
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
I honestly never really sought out a specific, personal mentor for my own reasons. I have always worked better by working alone, but I know that isn’t for everyone. I have sought out women whom I have looked up to when I have had questions or dilemmas, and I am thankful that I have found a few people who were willing to help me out along the way.
As far as others who would look for a mentor, I would suggest being a kind, decent human to every person you meet in life. Don’t do it in the hopes that they may help you someday, but do it because life is too short to treat others like shit for no reason. And maybe if you need help one day, you can find someone who remembers your kindness and treats you the same way.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: Ktwo_LeMew
- Other: Artist Insta – K_squaredpics
Image Credit:
27 Studios: Performing Arts Photography
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