“To describe my mother would be to write about a hurricane in its perfect power. Or the climbing, falling colors of a rainbow.” – Maya Angelou

Over the last year, we at AIGA Portland’s Women Lead focused efforts on celebrating the unique talents, perspectives, and needs of women-identifying creatives who also happen to be moms. The Wholly Mother series gave us an opportunity to do exactly that. We so loved connecting with you, hearing your stories, and celebrating everything that makes you so special!

Mama creatives are a unique bunch: women who give so much of themselves to work and family, often lacking the time and space to properly recharge and rejuvenate. Our Wholly Mother Kick-Off event offered us a chance to discover mom-focused resources and vendors, make new connections, and win a few bingo prizes along the way.

The second event in the series, Vent & Vector, invited moms to vent frustrations, share wins, and explore art as therapy while being reminded that we are not alone in this journey called life. Moderator Melissa Bird and our amazing panelists (Kate Bingaman-Burt, Outlet; Karri Carlson, Co-founder & VP Social Insights, Leadtail; Elaine Hsieh, Community Engagement Manager, 52ltd; Danica Wilson, Co-Founder, Plastic Sunshine) set the tone for an evening of wisdom, laughter, and the freedom to be honest with ourselves and each other. It was so encouraging to see guests linger after the Q&A and continue building on their vulnerability, a shared experience.

We finished off the series in March with The Art of Connection, an event led by creative folks at On Your Feet. Together we discovered new methods to form lasting bonds with both our families and each other. Moms and kids alike spent time playing games, making up stories, and getting out of our comfort zone. The tools we walked away with will be great in a variety of situations, whether on a long road trip with your little ones or walking into a party where you don’t know anyone (yet).

Thank you to everyone who hosted us, shared their wisdom and showed up for the Wholly Mother series over this past year. We are grateful to have had a chance to connect, learn, and celebrate the whole of motherhood and design in a supportive and safe environment.

Be on the lookout for more Women Lead events this summer!