I’m beyond excited to introduce the first post in a new series where I’ll be spotlighting artists I’ve collaborated with on different projects.
Collaborating like this reminds us how art is a cycle—an ever-evolving flow between creators and their visions. Lifting each other up, inspiring one another, and blending our unique styles is what makes these projects so special.
First up is the talented Naomi of Memphis Black Imaging. She recently created an image that features my Huge Ouroboros pendant, and the result was nothing short of magical. After exchanging some ideas and brainstorming, we were both drawn to the powerful symbolism of the Ouroboros for this project. Naomi brought the concept to life in a way that perfectly embodies both our visions—dark, mysterious, and full of depth.
I’m thrilled to share more about Naomi and her work with you all. Below are a few questions I asked her to help us get to know her better as an artist.
Can you tell us a bit about your artistic journey? How did Memphis Black Imaging come to life?
It actually all started or progressed from being an alternative model first. I did alternative modeling for 9 years and absolutely loved it, but then wanted to progress. I felt I went as far as I could go but also wanted more creative control by doing all my own work. So, I picked up a camera around 7 years ago and haven’t looked back since.
What themes or elements do you find yourself returning to most often in your work?
I think when I originally started, I was inspired and influenced more by other artists doing whimsical, ethereal, or fantasy-styled work. But now, I tend to get drawn to more thought-provoking or darker imagery. I still love doing dark beauty-styled imagery too, but love working on dark-themed concepts.
What does your creative process look like? Can you walk us through how you bring an idea to life?
Yeah, of course. It’s weird—I usually have to sit on ideas or concepts for a little while before I shoot them. I’m really mindful of creating original concepts, things I haven’t seen before. I try to make things unique and my own. It’s a highly saturated industry and most ideas have been done before.
I also have to think about how to execute them, especially with the image we created together. Sometimes imagery comes to me when I listen to music or in dreams. I often dream of the shoot I’m working on and ideas will come then, or a different way of shooting or editing.
I have a special book where I write things down first, then look at how to execute them. With our photoshoot, because there were two figures in frame, I had to shoot two different looks. I’m extremely particular about images being in focus and having no shadows in front of my green screen, so when I cut subjects out, it’s fairly easy.
Once I get all the images I need, I work pretty solidly for hours in front of my computer, putting everything together and fine-tuning as I go. I’m also very mindful of light—painting light and making sure everything looks seamless.
What do you hope people feel or experience when they see your work?
I hope especially in some of my more thought-provoking imagery, that it inspires someone or makes them feel less alone. I’ve been told my work resonates with people or that it feels otherworldly. I just hope I can inspire someone or have them see the beauty in the darkness as I do.
You’re not only behind the camera but also in front of it, handling your own modeling, styling, and makeup. Did this multifaceted approach develop naturally over time?
Absolutely, it did. I modeled first, which I think gives me an advantage. I’m really aware of how my subjects/models might be feeling on the day. Making sure they feel 100% comfortable in what we’re working on is extremely important to me.
There’s a particular way I work when I do self-portraits, which makes it easier when I’m editing later. That approach now translates when I work with other creatives too—it’s about building trust and having a strong creative relationship.
You can find Memphis Black Imaging on Instagram or Facebook
Naomi’s dedication to her craft and her ability to blend the dark with the beautiful is truly inspiring. I’m so pleased with what she created with my pendant, and I’m thrilled to have introduced her to you all.
Here’s a closer look at the star of the image—the Huge Ouroboros Pendant which was also shot by Naomi. Like all the snake pieces in my collection, it was cast from a real snake, making each detail truly captivating. The intricate textures and lifelike curves give the pendant its powerful and symbolic presence.
If you’re drawn to snake symbolism and the eternal cycle of life and death, this piece might be just what you’ve been looking for. Explore the different Ouroboros Pendants in the Snake Collection, and find your next favourite talisman.
