The breeze flows softly on one of the first warm days in New York City, perfectly inviting for a conversation with Audrey Coleman, a creative force and fresh face whose journey has been marked by transformation. Sipping hot matcha with turmeric and macadamia nut milk at her favorite café, Froth New York, Audrey’s confidence reflects a life of navigating challenges and an enduring spirit. Born with a rare craniofacial condition, she has overcome considerable obstacles and continues to thrive with a focus on impact rather than outward image.

Beyond Image: Art as a Vehicle for Change

Audrey is not bound by the blueprint she was given. Growing up with a youth marked by bullying, art became her pathway for change. She has worked to carve out space in a world that wasn’t initially designed for someone like her. Embracing the power of being seen, she has stepped into the role of the subject in front of the lens or other creative mediums. Her uniqueness and bravery are a reflection of embracing the highest forms of self-expression. Aiming to challenge norms and shift narratives often overlooked, she has found strength in shedding the mask of conformity.

Audrey’s journey began in the Sonoran desert of Phoenix, Arizona, where she spent time with her beloved horse, Apache, and many cats. Her move to New York City was sparked when she was discovered by the agency of Pablo Anton, New Icon. Reflecting on this transition, Audrey shares, “New York is the first place I’ve had the chance to pursue everything I’ve wanted, where I’m still learning and discovering more about myself.” This experience marked a pivotal moment in her life, enabling her to embrace the art of storytelling.

Audrey’s passion for the creative arts began early. Shaped by her upbringing in the Southwest, she developed a strong commitment to making a positive impact, using art as a form of advocacy. From Phoenix to New York, Audrey sought space to raise her voice and through hard work and perseverance, found a sense of belonging she hadn’t expected.

Overcoming Adversity and Finding Beauty in the Journey

Speaking openly about her experiences came naturally when she was inspired by skincare expert Marius at Tracie Martyn in Flatiron. They bonded over their shared passion for embracing differences by cultivating beauty from within. Marius had established a prominent clientele with his patented technology and high-performance skincare made with organic ingredients. Audrey’s story resonated with many, encouraging others to pursue their own dreams.

Having lived abroad and traveled to over 20 countries during her academic years, Audrey’s understanding of the interconnectedness of struggles around the world deepened. With a strong emphasis on community, her perspective expanded as she worked and lived across Latin America, Europe, and the United States. She later opened an art studio in Williamsburg, New York for figure drawing, painting, and sculpting, and has sold her works online to support Smile Train, a nonprofit that provides cleft care to children around the world. This continues her advocacy efforts, which began in her youth through activism for mental health and school safety as part of the March For Our Lives movement. Audrey also worked on securing funding for mental health services in Arizona schools. She went on to pursue photojournalism, documenting refugee water/WASH rights in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, while studying sustainability, computer science, and policy at Arizona State University.

She finds beauty in resilience, and today, she graces the pages of magazines and collaborates with brands whose values align with hers, constantly seeking meaningful ways to travel the globe. Inspired by Iris Van Herpen’s designs and their connection to Earth’s rhythms, Audrey’s own style reflects the synergy between biomimicry and queerness in nature. The alignment was clear when senior director at Aveda, Antionette Beenders, transformed her hair during the cosmic Bad Binch Tong Tong performance, a moment that resonated with her on a deep, universal level.

Audrey connects with niche artists making an impact who are part of a broader story and hopes the creative industries continue to move toward a more positive, inclusive, and sustainable future. One of the key chapters in Audrey’s journey occurred during her time in Mexico and later Spain, where she learned to trust the process, releasing all expectations and embracing the energy of chasing bold dreams. “Being pushed beyond what I thought I was capable of in pursuit of a dream has been eye-opening,” Audrey reflects. “It feels incredibly fortunate to experience the world through my work across Latin America, Europe, and the United States in projects that give me purpose.” Constantly evolving, she continues to find herself through the act of creation, with some of her favorite projects including collaborations with Guess and Chanel. Rising from the challenges of her past, Audrey embodies the spirit of a phoenix rising.

Follow Audrey Coleman’s Work

Online Presence: @Audreytheart
Tracie Martyn website: Tracie Martyn
Collaboration: Kadeem J. Quick

Published by Jeremy S.