Mom Talk with Artist Lia Burke Libaire

Mom Talk with Artist Lia Burke Libaire

Charleston-based artist and designer, Lia Burke Libaire is known for her colorful aesthetic and appreciation for nature and the human form. Her signature ‘evil eye’ is a common theme amongst her broad range of works. From design commissions to large-scale public installations to bespoke stationery designs, she has been featured in Vogue, Australian Vogue, and Apartment Therapy amongst many others. We caught up with the artistic mom to get a glimpse behind-the-scenes into her home life…
 

How do you practice self-care? 

This is an important one because self-care can mean many different things. The quote about not being able to pour from an empty cup is so true! I think it boils down to finding some time for yourself, whether it's taking a bath, going for a walk, getting a massage, leafing through a magazine, or just closing your eyes for a few minutes. These all work for me but I think it can really be anything you enjoy that’s especially dedicated to you!

What excited you most about motherhood?

It sounds so cliché but I love seeing the world through my daughter’s eyes — it’s like experiencing everything again for the first time. She turned two this past summer and is learning and changing so much every day. I love seeing what interests her and how her likes and dislikes change and mold who she is becoming right before my very eyes!

How was your pregnancy? What has surprised you the most? 

I was lucky to feel physically great through my first pregnancy (I am in the middle of my second and feel almost as good), but was not prepared for the mental rollercoaster that pregnancy presented at times. Most days were good, but I definitely went through some phases that were challenging and had periods of intense anxiety and depression that would come on seemingly out of nowhere (that would often end just as quickly). Looking back now I know it was hormonal, but when you are going through it it’s difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel. I wish this had been something I had heard more about. It wasn’t until after speaking with several close friends that I found out how common it really was. 

What is the best/most useful advice you’ve received about motherhood? 

The best piece of advice I have gotten (and given) is that there is no ‘right way’ to do anything. Every child — and mother — is different and it is so important to trust your gut and listen to your instincts. Only you know what is right or correct for your child and there are a million ways to do most things. Find out what works best for your circumstances and go with it. 

What are you eating these days? 

Literally everything! As I mentioned, I am pregnant again and trying to be healthy while still giving into some cravings (within reason). These days all I want is carbs — pasta and bread all day, so I am trying to enjoy those comfort foods while mixing in fresh veggies and protein where I can. I am able to eat meat during this pregnancy (during my first I was convinced I’d be a vegetarian for the rest of my life — I was repulsed)!