Meet D. Anaya | Interdisciplinary Artist, Grief Guide, Rootworker

We had the good fortune of connecting with D. Anaya and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi D., what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I have always seen myself as an entrepreneur, since my childhood I have been finding creative ways to express myself. Starting my own business(es), while scary in the early stages, seemed like the next logical step in my evolution as an artist, healer, advocate and mother.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Adventures of Grief Girl was founded in dedication to our daughter, Phoebe, who died suddenly in her sleep at age 4 due to complications from a rare genetic syndrome. It is our mission to uplift and empower bereaved families (and all people) to take ownership of their human experiences. Through grief installations, physical theatre, zines, poetry, journaling and ritual creation, we give voice to our grief to illustrate the painful awareness of how fleeting life can be. This work is never easy, as it requires us to hold space for love and life’s darkest tragedies. In the last two years, we have been able to expand our reach through social media with virtual experiences and a podcast called Grief After Dark. We share tips and advice about how to support a bereaved loved one who has experienced crisis or trauma via death/loss. We speak candidly about anxiety, depression, sexuality, injustice, death, dying and bereavement. We are passionate about grief education, holding space for deep healing, and encouraging others to add their voices so that we may heal the collective.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I live in Santa Fe, New Mexico where there is so much beautiful, rich indigenous history. Just being in the city is a treat in and of itself. Starting with breakfast at a local spot called Horseman’s Haven for the hottest green chile you can stand. A hike in the Sangre de Cristos, Atalaya trails, or a gentle hike and history lesson at Rancho de Las Golondrinas. Early morning fishing at Abiquiui Lake, baked goods from Dolinas Cafe. Lunch and margaritas at Maria’s. A walk through the Santa Fe Plaza, meandering up towards Artist’s Road to breathe in the works of local Artist’s such as Andrea Isabel Vargas, Earthseed Black Arts Collective and many more. Free concerts at the Railyard, Santa Fe Brewing Company for craft beers, and a night in the House of Eternal Return. So little time so much to see, but rounding it out with a healing soak at Ojo Caliaente or meditation in the Salt Caves would be bliss.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I dedicate this shoutout to Amanda Furdge, incredible poet, activist and human being. Angelique Zobitz, word sorceress, warrior & wisdom embodied. Tintawi Kaigziabahir , phenomenal artist & healer, give thanks. Naja Druva, keeper of our beautiful village. My spectacular partner Adam, our teachers (children) Pierce & Stellabelle who are also incredible artists. My work wife, Micki Hassemer of course. Jamie Asdorian of Tharavada Yoga and the best business coach ever. And, the Keanussuers, I love yous.

Website: https://www.griefafterdark.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/adventuresofgriefgirl?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=