Hi! I’m Audrey Banks I’ve been living in Flint, MI for a little over 2 years, I am a full time Fine Arts student with a concentration in media & design with a minor in graphic design. I also have owned my own photography business since 2017, and I’m also a Salon Coordinator in Ann Arbor, MI. Photography is my passion, but I also love being outdoors and relaxing at our up north cottage. My hobbies change like the Michigan weather so right now I’m really into creating graphics, logos and other branding materials, and exploring new creative ways to take photos. I love any kind of outdoor activities from boating, kayaking, bon fires, off-roading, and spur of the moment adventures along with traveling and discovering new things.

Tell us about how you got involved in the “Talking Hearts” project. How has the project evolved in your opinion?

Professor Gaydos had told me to apply and so I did, not thinking I would get chosen. From the beginning to now, I have formed friendships and have been able to really go outside of my comfort zone in creating content for this project, and it has given me the confidence I was lacking.

What do “Heart Maps” mean to you?  

“Heart Maps” allow myself to be vulnerable and share things with strangers that I normally won’t do. This project has connected me to so many amazing humans.

Tell us a fun fact about yourself!

I’ve been riding and competitively showing horses since the age of 6.

What does ‘art’ mean to you?

It’s my life, it’s how I decompress, it’s how I express my emotions. It is my outlet in life. It’s my healthy addiction!

One thing you can’t live without?

My Wife

What inspires you?

People inspire me with their stories, their beliefs, and their minds, if they can have a deeper conversation with me. Other artists really inspire me the most with their art processes, and how they create their art.

What are your long term goals?

I have so many, but my longest goal I have had is that one day I will own a giant commercial building where I can create a safe space for all artists. I want to teach the youth about art and give them also a creative space to explore and learn. I want to create a community in a community of all mediums of art that we can collaborate, inspire and learn from one another.

Any social media handles/personal websites where our viewers can follow you?

Personal website: http://banksphotography.org

Instagram: @behind_the_lenz22

Featured Image Credit: Audrey Banks