Our newest Los Angeles home, Common Sycamore, is located in West Adams with the iconic sites of Downtown LA, Hollywood, and Beverly Hills nearby. An ideal location for many Los Angelinos, this dream-like area is what draws so many people to the city each year. To capture this magic at Common Sycamore itself, we wanted to work with a local artist, Kim Genevieve whose work reflects its magical vibes.
Her photography truly showcases the inspirational air of LA, and we’re excited to feature her as our Local Artist in Action at Common Sycamore. Kim recently launched her own online collection of limited-edition prints, and is excited to continue creating and living in the city she loves with her husband and dog. Keep reading to learn more about Kim’s artistic inspirations, her favorite parts of the neighborhood, and how she was able to start over her life in LA.
As someone who moved from Canada to California, what advice do you have for someone moving to a new city for the first time?
Leaving everything behind to pursue an unknown future in a new city is both exciting and completely terrifying! It takes a lot of guts to pursue your dreams, especially when people try to discourage you or tell you that your goals are unrealistic. But you have to stay brave, set aside your fears, and believe that moving somewhere new is going to help you grow regardless of the outcome. It’s going to be a wild journey full of ups and downs, but if you stay open-minded and embrace whatever comes your way, that’s when the magic truly happens!
What was the biggest challenge for you to start a new life in California?
It’s such a process when you’re creating a new life in a new country, but somehow I knew I’d figure it out because living in LA is all I ever wanted since I was a kid. Because I moved from Canada, I had zero credit in the United States, so figuring out how to get an apartment, open a bank account, and get a cell phone plan was a bit frustrating at first, haha! It felt like I was starting from scratch, almost like I was taking steps backward.
For the first few months, my boyfriend (now husband) and I lived in a motel until we were able to find an apartment and a landlord that gave two Canadian kids a chance. I remember moving into our empty apartment that first night, ordering a large pizza, and just sitting on the floor, talking about our dreams together and how lucky we felt to live in California finally! It took a lot of hard work just getting to that moment, but I remember just feeling so incredibly happy to be able to create in a new city.
How do you personally define “home”?
For me, a home is a place where I can be as creative as I want to be, where I feel free enough just to be myself, and where my ideas come to life! These days, my home is in West Hollywood with my husband Andre and our cute little rescue pup named Dolly Parton.
Where do you draw your inspiration from for your art?
Real-life! My personal experiences, my life in Los Angeles, and the wonder kid that lives inside of me — that’s what inspires me the most. I take photos that spark happiness within me, and I hope it does the same for others.
If you could only use a few words, how would you describe your work?
I hope that when people look at my work, they see photos that are optimistic, joyful, and sweet! I want my work to reflect all the details and the colors that I love most about living and pursuing my dreams in California, and hopefully, it makes others want to pursue their dreams as well!
What’s your favorite local spot in LA?
During the summer months, I spend many weeknights seeing shows at The Hollywood Bowl. It’s such a magical experience, outside, under the stars, with The Hollywood Sign in the background. Every time I go,I have an incredible night of music and refreshed love for this city.
What’s your favorite place?
I love escaping to Palm Springs whenever I can. It’s a great place to write and recharge. Once I get back to LA, feeling like I have a trunk full of new and inspiring ideas.
What upcoming project are you most excited about?
I recently launched an online gallery full of limited edition art prints. It’s something I’ve been dreaming of creating for a long time, so I’m thrilled it’s finally out in the world! I’ve poured every bit of myself into these collections, so I hope it resonates with others and brings a bit of whimsy and joy.
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