NIEPHEN: A collective term I invented for nieces and nephews

Since founding my full-time art practice and working from the family home in 2018, my niephens have been a constant presence in my life. Without any notice, I would see them in my doorway with big smiles for days or weeks at a time. My work seamlessly weaved around our time together; beading my quilts with tiny semi-precious stones flowed right into snack time or long walks. Holding my phone with one hand during those random calls about dinosaurs while I was writing or drawing was a normal weekday. Diaper changes and potty training in between website edits or errand runs was a productive afternoon.

Working mothers are publicly asked how they ‘manage to juggle work and home life’, but single, childless women have just as much responsibility and activity in our lives. Being part of the village that helps raise children is a very special position and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Have a Pleasant Day
-Rae Pleasant