Artist Spotlight: Lisa Congdon Collabs with NoSo to Patch the Planet
People are more likely to repair their outdoor clothing and gear when the fixes are attractive. That’s just a simple truth. And it makes sense when you think about it. Nobody wants ugly duct tape on their expensive down jacket, smeared glue on their tent flaps, or shoddy stitching on their backpack.
At NoSo, we are all about repairs that look good. That’s why we collaborate with some amazing artists. And today, we are highlighting the lovely, the adventurous, the oh-so creative Lisa Congdon!
Lisa is an award-winning, internationally recognized artist, illustrator, and writer. And we are so honored to have worked with her on these colorful and cool repair patches. They just exude joy, freedom, and fun in a way that you’d be proud to show off.
To celebrate this collab, we sat down with Lisa for a Q&A:
Who are you, and what kind of magic do you make?
My name is Lisa Congdon, and I am an illustrator and painter!
I live in beautiful Portland, Oregon. I make colorful art that goes on lots of things, including my own products (mostly stationery and gift items that we sell in my shops) and also on brand collaborations and for wonderful clients.
Why did you decide to patch the planet with us? We’re blushing already.
I love NoSo’s mission and am excited to be part of your offerings!
I am an avid cyclist and outdoors person, and I love the idea of keeping my gear fresh with unique designs year after year instead of throwing it in the landfill.
We live by “adding flair or repair.” Got a favorite piece of gear you’ll be patchdazzling up with your patch line?
Right now, I have a cycling vest that I was wearing when I crashed last year (don’t worry, I’m okay!) that I’ve been needing to repair!
How do you personally define sustainability — in art, life, or both?
I coach fellow artists, and one of the things we talk about a lot is creating lives for ourselves that are sustainable—and that includes making work that pays the bills over the long term, work that does not negatively impact the environment, and work that spreads hope and optimism for a bright future.
What’s your power color—the one that shows up in your work or wardrobe again and again?
Most definitely red! Although currently, I am in my yellow era.
What’s your ride-or-die tool when you’re making art?
My iPad and my Apple Pencil.
What sparks your creativity? Where does your inspiration come from? Dreams? Nature? Midnight snacks?
I value spaciousness above all else. When I have time to daydream, I make the best work. I get many of my best ideas when I am lying on an acupuncture table doing absolutely nothing!
Is there one piece of art you’ve made that makes you go, ‘Yep, that’s so me’? Tell us why. What makes it special?
I think most of my work is 100% me, but recently I made a piece called You Belong Here. To me, it exemplifies not only my values, but also my visual aesthetic—from the colors it includes to the icons and symbols.
Who are your creative heroes — the legends or locals who light your fire?
My favorite artist of all time is Alexander Girard, who was a designer in the mid-century who made super playful, colorful, modern work based on folk art influence. I can look at anything he designed and am instantly inspired visually.
What’s your favorite part of your creative process? Is it the brainstorm, the mess, or that ‘nailed it’ moment?
I honestly like all three! But I do think the ‘nailed it’ moment is the most satisfying!
How has your art and business evolved? Tell us your evolutionary story. What have you learned along the way?
I am self-taught, so everything I learned, I learned through experimenting. I started as a painter, made mostly very realistic stuff, then pivoted to a more graphic, flat style, and have been there ever since! I have learned that it is important to honor what you love to create versus what you think you should create!
What’s your go-to way to get outside and play? Any fave spots you’re willing to share?
Bikes, all the time, every day. I ride and race bikes, mostly on gravel, and Sisters, Oregon, is my favorite spot to ride.
If you could stick a NoSo Patch anywhere in the world—gear, place, person, idea—where would it go, and why?
I’d stick one on fascism.
