Episode 43: Painting History at Home: Emma Paints with Keisha Finnie
In this Black History Month episode of Living in 3D Power, Emma sits down with Lancaster Pennsylvania-based artist Keisha Finnie (@keishafinnie) or an intergenerational conversation about creativity, Black history, community, and what it means to make art that lives beyond us.
As they paint together inside Keisha’s home, Emma takes part in creating a mural that will be installed at the Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Center for History and Democracy, opening in May. The episode blends rapid-fire questions, reflective dialogue, and real-time art-making to explore how Black history is learned, lived, and created.
Chapters
02:10 – Rapid Fire Questions
Emma opens with rapid-fire questions about creativity, inspiration, and staying connected to art.
03:26 – Discussing Merch and Art
Keisha talks about creating wearable and accessible art through merchandise and creative products.
04:51 – The Challenges and Joys of Painting Murals
A look at the physical, emotional, and communal aspects of mural work.
07:44 – Childhood and Early Art Experiences
Keisha reflects on her early relationship with art and how creativity showed up in her childhood.
10:34 – The Importance of Creativity and Self-Care
Discussion on burnout, rest, and creativity as an essential form of care.
16:17 – Black History and Art
Exploring how Black history is carried, preserved, and expressed through artistic practice.
18:38 – The Power of Learning Young
Emma and Keisha discuss why it matters for young people to learn history early and see themselves reflected.
19:00 – Creating a Historic Mural
Conversation about painting a mural for the Thaddeus Stevens & Lydia Hamilton Smith Center and what it means to contribute to a permanent historical space.
21:39 – Black Artists and Representation
A discussion on representation, museums, and visibility for Black artists.
23:09 – Finding Inspiration and Community
Keisha shares how community and collaboration sustain her work.
27:51 – The Therapeutic Art of Henna
Exploring henna as a healing, body-centered, and temporary art form.
33:49 – The Importance of Black Art and Community
Rejecting scarcity and competition in favor of collective growth and shared space.
36:46 – Emma’s Reflections and Takeawa
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If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who would love these conversations. Engage with the Curiosity Cards and ask the youth in your life about their experiences because you might be surprised by what you learn. Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments or on social media using #LivingIn3DPower. And, don’t forget to subscribe and stay tuned for next week’s conversation!
