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Honesty and authenticity flow through everything Lemin produces, from her music and tattooing to embroidery.
Singer-songwriter, tattoo artist and skillful embroiderist - no matter what Lemin does, she does it with passion and authenticity. At the age of 8, Lemin was writing songs, putting her emotions to paper and eventually getting the opportunity to share her music. In no way does she force her creative process. So when she’s not writing, she’s exploring other creative endeavours, like a collab with Mary Young or building her tattoo artistry, which in turn enriches all of her projects.
When I was younger, I used to really pride myself on the fact that I could do everything alone. I wrote, produced, recorded, and released all my own music, all by myself. And while I’m still super proud of that, I’ve learned how much community and collaboration can enrich your art practice, whatever it may be. Having a community of like-minded people whose artistry you respect and admire can motivate and inspire you in such a new way. I’ve learned that exposing your mind to things you might never have thought of and opening up to different ideas can grow your practice 10000x.
“Don’t be so precious with your art.” I think we can really attach ourselves to our creations and hold onto them so desperately, making sure everything is right and aligned before showing anyone. Maybe it’s partly a fear that we won’t create anything as good again? And maybe it’s a fear that if we don’t release our art under the most perfect conditions, nobody will like it or care? But I wish I could go back in time and tell myself to trust my instincts, and trust my art, and to create and share when it feels right and natural. Don’t overthink it.
I’ve kind of shifted my attitude towards the word “failure.” I used to see myself as failing all the time. For example, with music, I always felt like I wasn’t getting enough streams or views or listeners, I wasn’t playing big enough venues, I wasn’t getting enough publicity, etc. etc. etc. To me, all of those things felt like failures, and I still struggle with that feeling. But the difference for me now is that it’s forced me to kind of return to the way I made art before the idea of “succeeding” or “success” was involved. Now, I really try to focus on what, to me, is the whole point of doing what I’m doing - expressing my creativity and creating something that I’m genuinely proud of, whether it’s recognized on a big scale or not.
I feel like I’ve taken quite a few risks in my life. Putting your creativity out there in any capacity is a huge risk. But most recently, I’d say the biggest risk I’ve taken is starting to tattoo. It was one of the most, if not the most terrifying thing I’ve probably ever done. But now, it’s my most favourite thing to do. I feel such a sense of accomplishment from my tattoo work, and I’m so incredibly happy and proud of myself for taking the risk.
It really depends on what I’m working on. If it’s music, it’s less about me getting myself in the zone and more about the zone finding me. I really only write when I feel inspired, and I don’t like to force that one because I think music is the most beautiful when it’s authentic and raw. But when I’m designing tattoos, I usually throw on a funny show in the background or maybe a really good playlist or podcast and just sit on my bed and draw. I always have snacks and tea on hand, that's very important to the process.
I can draw inspiration from almost anything. I sometimes draw inspiration from movies or tv shows, nature, architecture, and any other random thing I see or hear that might inspire me. I can’t think of one especially unexpected place.
Ouf. Imposter syndrome is definitely something I’ve struggled with and still struggle with. In terms of songwriting, it can definitely be terrifying to expose your true and vulnerable self to your family, friends, and strangers. But I’ve always said that for me, personally as an artist, authenticity is extremely important. So, at the end of the day, if I feel like I’ve been honest with myself and in my music, that’s more important to me than what anyone (including myself) may think.
I’m actually so grateful that I have the opportunity and means to try out different artistic endeavours because I don’t like to force my art too much. As I mentioned earlier, I’ve gotten to a place where songwriting has to come from something raw and authentic, so sometimes I can go months without writing. It’s nice to be able to fill that creative space with something else, like tattooing or embroidery. Not to mention that, in a way, all creativity feeds itself, so being able to express myself through different means actually enriches all my other practices.
Incredible experimental and abstract tattoo artist who, I think, really challenges the traditional idea of tattoos.
Incredible experimental and abstract tattoo artist who, I think, really challenges the traditional idea of tattoos.
Her music is so so good, and her lyrics can sometimes be so hilarious, which is really refreshing.
Her music is so so good, and her lyrics can sometimes be so hilarious, which is really refreshing.
Amazing pianist, musician, producer, manager, etc. etc. etc.!
Super talented painter. Really follows his own style and impulse in his artwork.
Super talented painter. Really follows his own style and impulse in his artwork.