Laura Kerbyson – As the Subject of Art
Unveiling the Essence: Embracing Vulnerability
For more than three decades, I’ve thrived in the world of marketing, capturing the beauty of countless women for luxurious advertising campaigns. My lens has graced beauty queens, actresses, and hidden talents in fabulous Palm Beach scenes, while I remained comfortably behind the camera.
Recently, an intriguing opportunity arose—to step into the spotlight and become the subject of art photography, just as I’ve asked my models to do. This assignment was different; its purpose was to strip away the wrapper that surrounds us in the business world—the glasses, the styled hair, the expensive attire—a facade that doesn’t truly define who I am. The objective was clear: to present the raw and unconstrained version of myself through art, allowing people to witness my authenticity.
The very thought of this challenge was terrifying, for I’ve always been camera shy. Throughout my life, this fear loomed large, taunting me relentlessly. I tried to reason with myself, drawing parallels to moments of conquering my fear—like when I first started flying airplanes. If I could do that, surely I could brave the camera as well. But emotions, as I learned, defy the constraints of logic.
At 54 years old, another concern gripped me—how would I look? The harsh judgment that aging imposes on women weighed heavily on my mind. Yet, I found inspiration in Martha Stewart’s courageous appearance on the Sports Illustrated cover. Her boldness impressed me, and I owe her my gratitude. Encouraged by her example, I resolved to embrace this challenge. Little did I know that this journey would also reveal to me the true reflection of my own self.
For so long, I had hidden behind trademark glasses, but a head injury led me to reluctantly part ways with them. Adjusting to life with new contacts was a change, but it also opened my eyes to new perspectives. My long hair, often worn up, cascades down to my elbows, a feature that had often gone unnoticed.
Love became the central theme of this shoot, a choice deeply rooted in my core values. Love, I believe, should guide every interaction and decision in life. It has the power to uplift and support, and I have always strived to attract more love and kindness into my world. Even in the cutthroat world of business, entrepreneurs in the pursuit of their dreams need love and support as much as any friend.
Thus, the essence of this visual journey became an intimate revelation of vulnerability and authenticity—shedding the wrapper that society imposed on me and embracing the unfiltered truth of who I am. It is a reminder that, in a world driven by appearances, it is love that truly sets us free.
I will begin the first post with the shot I like the best. There will be other posts later. You can weigh in on which one is your favorite and why. I invite your feedback. The same posts will be made to Instagram, one post per week for six weeks, you may comment on them there @laurakerbyson.
Drawing Inspiration from Viparita Karani: Embracing Relaxation and Self-Care
This captivating image finds its roots in the serene Legs Up the Wall Pose, also known as Viparita Karani, a restorative yoga posture renowned for its ability to induce profound relaxation and release tension from both mind and body.
As an executive, this shot serves as a poignant visual reminder of the paramount significance of relaxation and letting go of stress. In the bustling world of business, it becomes all too easy to neglect self-care and self-love amidst the demands of daily life. Yet, this photograph encapsulates the essence of nurturing oneself, unwinding, and finding solace in moments of tranquility.
Just as this restorative pose encourages the body to surrender to gravity’s gentle pull, so too should we learn to surrender our burdens and embrace moments of repose. It is in these quiet intervals that we replenish our spirits and rekindle the flame of well-being. This practice should not be considered a luxury but an indispensable part of our self-care routine.
Let this captivating image inspire us to prioritize relaxation and self-love, weaving them into the fabric of our daily lives. By doing so, we empower ourselves to face the challenges of the corporate world with newfound vitality and a refreshed perspective. As we honor our well-being, stress dissipates, and tension unravels, creating a harmonious balance between our professional endeavors and inner serenity.
Reach for the Stars: Embrace Your Dreams
In the vast expanse of possibilities that life presents, we are each given a precious gift—the power to reach for what we truly want. Our dreams, aspirations, and deepest desires are the guiding stars that illuminate our path, urging us to take bold steps towards greatness.
Never settle for the ordinary when extraordinary awaits you. Embrace the boundless potential within, and let your ambitions soar to new heights. In the pursuit of your passions, remember that the journey itself is just as significant as the destination. Along this path, you will encounter challenges and setbacks, but it is through these trials that your character is forged, your resilience strengthened, and your spirit emboldened.
Dare to dream without boundaries, for it is through audacious dreams that we change the course of history and create a better world. Embrace the power of self-belief, for the fire that burns within you can light up the darkest of skies.
Surround yourself with like-minded souls who uplift and empower you, for a strong support network is the fuel that ignites your determination. And as you pursue your aspirations, remember to be kind to yourself. Celebrate each milestone, no matter how small, and acknowledge the progress you make on this grand expedition.
Life is a canvas awaiting your masterpiece, and with every stroke of courage and resilience, your true potential emerges. Seize the moments, seize the dreams, and seize the future you envision.
The universe conspires to support those who relentlessly strive to achieve their dreams. It is not a matter of luck but a matter of unwavering commitment, perseverance, and belief in yourself.
So, my dear friends, let your heart guide you and your dreams inspire you. Reach for what you truly want in life, and as you grasp the stars, you will realize that you are capable of reaching far beyond what you ever imagined. Embrace the journey, and let your dreams take flight. The world awaits the brilliance of your spirit!
Embrace Harmony Within: Discover the Peace You Seek
In the midst of life’s whirlwind, it’s easy to lose sight of our own essence—the profound peace that resides within each of us. But amidst the chaos and noise, there lies a sanctuary, a sacred space where tranquility awaits our embrace.
Being one with yourself is the journey back to your core, the realization that you are a magnificent tapestry of emotions, dreams, and aspirations. Embrace every thread of your being, for it is the unique blend of strengths and vulnerabilities that shapes the beautiful mosaic of your soul.
In the quest for peace, remember that it is not a destination but a state of mind. It doesn’t lie in external possessions or circumstances but in the depths of your heart, waiting to be awakened.
Take a moment to be still, to quiet the restless thoughts that often consume us. In the silence, you’ll find the wisdom that lies beyond the noise. Embrace solitude, for it is in moments of reflection that we reconnect with our true selves.
Self-compassion is the key that unlocks the door to inner peace. Be gentle with yourself, recognizing that you are a work in progress, and that’s perfectly okay. Embrace your imperfections as stepping stones towards growth and learning.
Find solace in nature’s embrace, for the world outside mirrors the universe within. Amidst the rustling leaves and the dancing waves, you’ll witness the profound harmony that seeks to resonate within your soul.
Practice mindfulness, and with each breath, become attuned to the present moment. Let go of regrets from the past and worries about the future, for the true essence of life lies in the now.
As you cultivate a deeper connection with yourself, you’ll discover that peace is not about escaping life’s storms but learning to navigate them with grace and resilience. Challenges may come your way, but the inner sanctuary you’ve built will remain a constant source of strength and serenity.
So, my dear friends, venture inward, embrace the journey of self-discovery, and find the peace that awaits you there. Be one with yourself, for within the depths of your soul, you’ll find the infinite wellspring of peace that has been with you all along.
Embrace the Sacred Pause: Finding Your Moment of Bliss
In the hustle and bustle of life, we often find ourselves swept away by the currents of responsibilities and demands. But amidst the chaos, there exists a precious gift—an opportunity to discover a moment just for ourselves, a moment of blissful serenity.
In the rhythm of our daily routines, we must carve out a sacred pause—an interlude of stillness and reflection. It is in this moment that we reunite with our true essence, where we honor our needs, dreams, and desires.
Finding that moment for yourself is not selfish; it is a vital act of self-care and self-preservation. Just as a garden needs tending, our souls too need nurturing. The world around us may rush on, but in that moment of solitude, we find a sanctuary—a space where we can breathe freely, unburdened by the weight of expectations.
Let go of the guilt that sometimes accompanies the pursuit of personal time. Embrace the understanding that nurturing yourself allows you to be a more fulfilled and compassionate presence in the lives of others.
In that moment, embrace the activities that bring you joy. It could be as simple as sipping a cup of tea, taking a leisurely stroll in nature, immersing yourself in the pages of a beloved book, or losing yourself in the melody of your favorite music.
Disconnect from the constant stream of notifications and immerse yourself in the present moment. The world can wait, but this moment is yours and yours alone. Allow the soothing stillness to wash over you, like a gentle breeze on a warm summer’s day.
In that moment for yourself, let go of worries, regrets, and future uncertainties. Embrace the freedom to be fully present with yourself, for it is in this awareness that we unlock the gateway to inner peace and rediscover the beauty that resides within.
So, my dear friends, seize that moment for yourself with open arms. Embrace the sacred pause and revel in the tranquility it bestows. In these moments, we become architects of our own bliss, finding harmony within ourselves and emerging with a renewed sense of purpose and vitality.
Embracing the Hugh Hefner Spirit: A Journey of Inspiration
When we hear the name Hugh Hefner, we think of the iconic Playboy founder—a man who transcended boundaries, challenged societal norms, and created a cultural revolution. But beyond the extravagant lifestyle and glamorous parties, there’s something about Hugh Hefner that goes deeper—an essence that sparks inspiration in unexpected ways.
Hugh Hefner was an enigmatic figure who fearlessly pursued his vision, unapologetically carving a path that reflected his beliefs and passions. He stood as a symbol of liberation, advocating for the freedom of expression and challenging conventional attitudes towards sexuality and lifestyle choices.
His story is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. Hugh faced numerous obstacles along his journey, but he never let them define him. Instead, he transformed challenges into opportunities, becoming an entrepreneur who reshaped an entire industry.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Hefner’s impact extended into the realms of social justice and civil rights. He used his platform to elevate the voices of marginalized communities, advocating for racial integration and featuring writers and artists whose voices were often silenced.
At the core of Hugh Hefner’s legacy lies the belief in the pursuit of pleasure and happiness. He encouraged people to embrace their desires and unapologetically celebrate their unique identities. His vision went beyond superficial indulgence; it encompassed the pursuit of personal fulfillment and authenticity.
As we reflect on the Hugh Hefner spirit, we find inspiration to break free from society’s shackles, to challenge norms, and to march to the beat of our own drum. It’s about embracing our passions and dreams without reservation, honoring our true selves, and empowering others to do the same.
Hugh Hefner’s legacy reminds us that we, too, can be architects of change. We can shatter barriers, create meaningful connections, and inspire others to embrace their individuality. We can use our unique platforms and voices to advocate for justice, acceptance, and love.
Let us be inspired by the audacious spirit of Hugh Hefner, not merely to imitate his lifestyle, but to embark on our own personal journeys of growth and self-discovery. Let us strive to create a world that welcomes diversity, celebrates freedom of expression, and empowers each individual to unapologetically be themselves.
In the spirit of Hugh Hefner, let us find the courage to dream big, to live passionately, and to embrace life with an unyielding zest. Let us be driven by a vision of a world where everyone can feel liberated, authentic, and truly alive.