Artist Spotlight: Meet Oris Eddu of Breathe Live Explore

Artist Oris Eddu has an impressive array of accomplishments, from working as a wedding planner to her background in STEM to being the visionary behind Breathe Live Explore. Founded only in 2019, Breathe Live Explore (BLE) has already become a favorite amongst people (and companies!) looking for a boost of optimistic flair. Learn more about Oris and BLE in our exclusive Q&A with her (and then check out her Evites for your next celebration)!

What inspired you to become an artist? 

As far as I know, I have always had my hands on something crafty. While I was in middle school, art class was one thing I was excited about. Whether it was drawing or paper mache, tie-dye, or mixed media sessions, art made me escape from reality. One art project I recall was the use of matchsticks to create a house. I also used fabric scraps to make portraits and abstracts. I have volunteered in art galleries, and summer art workshops where I worked with kids many years ago. So, what inspired me to become an artist? I would say it is the joy of creating, the feeling of inner freedom, utmost self-expression and adding color to everyday life.

Which three words describe your design aesthetic?

Striking, Spontaneous, Vibrant

What inspires your work?

I draw inspiration from the beauty of nature, personal experiences, mindful living and my travels.

When you have a creative block, what pulls you out of it?

Going beyond my comfort zone. I give myself creative prompts or study a subject like florals or fruits. I also enjoy taking long walks, hiking and discovering new places. Other times, it could be spending time in art libraries or museums.

What is your proudest moment as an artist?

One of my proudest moments as an artist was having an end cap at Target. To be showcased amongst exceptional artists was humbling.

What's the most memorable party you've ever been to?

Fun fact: I used to be a wedding planner. I would say the events I planned have always been memorable!

What advice would you give to an aspiring creator?

My motto is REPEAT. Literally.

Research - What’s your why? Find other artists and creators that inspire you.

Experiment - Try different art styles, explore tools and mediums.

Practice - Always be a learner.

Evolve - Don’t be afraid to pivot when you need to. Change is normal.

Accept - Embrace your authenticity. That’s what makes you, YOU.

Tenacity - Be tenacious. It’s okay to be afraid. But, keep doing it scared.

Is there a mantra that you follow when you work?

Oh yes. I’m big on affirmative words. I have a board with positive notes that read “one day at a time,” “you got this,” and “you can do anything you set your mind to.”

You're a self-taught artist with a background in STEM. What learnings from your time in STEM have you applied to your work now as an artist?

At their core, art and science are both about observation and interpretation. Truth is, science has been influencing art from as early as man learned to draw. One has never been very far from the other. I’m an ever-curious learner and my STEM background has helped me interpret, study and explore the world around me. Spending time studying art subjects and their dependency on nature and anatomy is as important as illustrating and painting them.

How have the various countries you've lived in and traveled to shaped your creative vision?

Travel influences my creative life. It has opened me up to more possibilities and deeper creative thinking. Immersing myself in a new environment helps to strengthen the neurons that like to embrace new ideas and make creative juices flow.

Your brand, Breathe Live Explore (BLE), is still fairly new but already has tons of fans thanks to numerous brand collaborations. What prompted you to create BLE? 

That’s humbling. Truth is, it was all happenstance. I started making art because I enjoyed it and kept sharing it on social media. It got attention, and people asked for prints and products, so I opened an Etsy shop.

What has been the most rewarding part of creating your own brand? 

The most rewarding part of BLE is when others experience my work. It's such a thrill to see products in people’s homes and spaces.

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How has balancing a business with your creativity changed your approach to art?

It’s been quite interesting balancing both. Setting time for business is as important as making the art. I am also learning to delegate some tasks to make more time for creativity. 

Your work is filled with florals of all sorts. What is it about flowers that draws you in, and when it comes to the real ones, do you have any favorites?

“Flowers whisper beauty to the world.’’ 

“Where flowers bloom, so does hope.”

Painting florals doesn’t only make me feel blissful, it also adds color and hope to our everyday. Sure, I love to get myself flowers, and my favorites are peonies, dahlia or tulips. I can never go wrong with them!

Founded in 2019 by artist and influencer Oris Eddu, Breathe Live Explore is a creative brand that mindfully infuses adventure into everyday life. The brand embraces the joy of slow living through designs that stem from a place of mindfulness and active participation.  Over the years, Breathe Live Explore has partnered with brands and businesses across the globe spanning various industries including homeware, decor, fabrics, stationery, and fashion. Features and collaborations include Target, Sand + Fog, Oasis, and White Stuff among others. You can follow her on Instagram or check out her line of Evites here.