Deun Ivory - The Home Body
Deun Ivory - The Home Body
Deun Ivory is a traveling wellness creative, inspirational speaker, influencer + multidisciplinary artist whose work centers + celebrates black women. Widely recognized for her striking portrait photography + authentic influence in the creative and wellness industry, she has partnered with brands like Apple, Glossier, Nike, Netflix, and more to create visual experiences through visual storytelling. Her unapologetic, yet inimitable presence has made room for her as a powerful speaker. She has led workshops and delivered keynote presentations for universities, photography conferences and brand activations.
What is your definition of freedom? What does it look and feel like to you? And how do you cultivate it daily?
Freedom is choice. It feels like peace. It feels like power. It feels like love. I cultivate it daily by operating in my power and standing in my truth. Always in awareness that i'm not bound to anything but love and JESUS.
Freedom can feel like something we’re all seeking, but may have trouble grasping. What's one piece of advice or some words of wisdom you can offer to this community as they look to "get free"?
The truth leaves you naked and naked leaves you exposed. When you're exposed, you realize that you have nothing to hide anymore. Hiding carries weight. Hiding carries judgement. Hiding carries shame. Choosing to not hide is a reclamation of power + self-love.
Share an anecdote, memory, or practice in your life that embodies freedom in every way.
Choosing to start the body: a home for love.
You mention that the body: a home for love is dedicated to the collective healing and wellness of black women. How did the creation of this project facilitate your own healing process? How has it deepened your connection to self and other black women?
The body: a home for love has created a safe space for me to become deeply introspective and communicative around my voicing my desires and stance on things. Curating this space has nurtured my voice and has, even more so, shown me the power of my words. For the longest time ever, I struggled with speaking up and showing up for myself vocally. I grew comfortable shrinking, not realizing that i was being cruel to myself because I thought it was what I deserved.
Being a leader and creative visionary fills with so much conviction because I realize that my obedience and commitment to this journey of showing up for myself and taking up space, directly blesses and empowers other women.
The body: a home for love has allowed me to heal from certain fears that made me feel small. I can confidently navigate the world without feeling responsible for other people’s actions. I can now own my sexuality and sensuality without feeling like it devalues me as a woman. I can, now, reclaim my joy and my story, unapologetically.
Even with all my highs, I recognize that I still have a long journey ahead of me. There are other things that God has to heal me from. but I’m grateful for where I am, now.
What is one song that helps you get free?
One song that helps me get free is Almeda by Solange.
3. What is one book that has helped you claim your freedom?
One book that has helped me claim my freedom is The Bible.