Meet Sommer Koweek | Photographer and Painter

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

Hi Sommer, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I decided to start my own business because I wanted more control and freedom over my life. I worked in the restaurant industry for a while and every week my schedule was different, and I was tired of not having extra time to do meaningful things in life. I have always loved art and creation, so I decided to find the most logical path to making art into a career. For me, this turned out to be photography. I was already familiar with the world of photography because I used to model. Even then, I had always been curious about the other side of the camera. I bought my first camera, watched hours and hours of YouTube videos about how to use it, and then I begged my friends and family to model for me. I didn’t expect to fall in love with photography as much as I have but now, I can’t imagine doing anything else.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My painting and photography always aim to empower the subject. In a world where we are constantly questioned, criticized, belittled and minimized, my art gives the subject a moment to breathe and take up space. I want to celebrate the uniqueness and power of everyone who steps in front of my camera. I am proud and excited that I get to travel for both photography and painting work. I have traveled the states for photography, and I’ve always traveled to Maui to paint.

My professional journey in art has not been easy but it has been very rewarding. I’ve learned to never give up and always keep learning. Staying in a growth mentality means my work will always improve. I hope that people will hear my story and be inspired to create and gain confidence in their uniqueness.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Tucson has so many interesting and unique places! I absolutely love going to the zoo, The Desert Museum and El Jefe Cat Cafe! For food, I love to get tacos at Tacos Apson. Black Crown coffee is my favorite coffee place. One of my favorite treats is getting a slice of pizza and driving out to Gates Pass to watch the sunset and eat some pizza.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My parents have always loved and supported me unconditionally and I cannot thank them enough for that. My father owns a business too, he has inspired me to run my own business. I call him almost every week asking for business advice. I would also like to thank my painting mentor Jeff Roth, he’s an art professor at Coconino Community College. He taught me so much about art and visual thinking and is such an impactful teacher.

Website: https://www.solsticephotos.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solstice_photo/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077100542993