Canessa Thomas shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Canessa, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity matters more to me than intelligence or energy. Intelligence can be used for cruelty, and energy can shift—but integrity keeps me from ever knowingly harming or manipulating others. It ensures I remain fair and honorable in all my interactions.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a self-taught visual artist working intuitively in digital, mixed media, and collage. I let each piece guide me—starting with a spark, a feeling, or a color—and unfolding organically. My work is about healing, connection, and reflection.
What excites me most is when someone sees themselves in my art, recognizes their own story or dreams, and brings it into their life. Symbolism and spirit run through everything I create, connecting me to those who resonate with it.
For me, art isn’t just a practice—it’s my purpose in action.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
Bonds are built through connection, trust, and mutual investment. They break when dishonesty, lack of accountability, false pride, or imbalance creeps in. Love has the power to heal and restore, but true restoration also requires growth and a willingness to become the change you wish to see.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering gave me deeper empathy for others and a greater appreciation for joy, even on the hardest days. It reminded me that rain doesn’t last forever, the sun will shine again, and that even the tiniest things can hold mighty joy.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
We are fundamentally interconnected. Every choice we make, every success we achieve, is supported by countless unseen hands and shared effort. Recognizing our interdependence is not just awareness—it is a guiding truth that shapes how we live, relate, and contribute to the world.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
I give my best no matter what. I was raised to do so—it’s who I am. A piece of me is in everything I do, and as long as I know I gave my all, I find peace. Praise is appreciated, but I show up every time regardless.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://phloart.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phlo.bella/
