Abigail Albano-Payton shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Abigail , it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: Who are you learning from right now?
I’m learning from independent artists that harness community-building to connect creatives, especially in the DFW area.
I realized that a major part of my artistic process comes from surrounding myself with like-minded people- this to me is where ultimate inspiration derives from, at least in this season of my life. I’m able to identify when stepping back and creating alone aligns more with where I’m at mentally.
I’m also learning from past versions of myself that were afraid to try new things or step outside my comfort zone. With the art I’ve been creating lately, being uncomfortable is a part of the process that I need to come to terms with. It’s also invigorating.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Abigail Albano-Payton! Those close to me call me Abi though. I am an artist here in the DFW that specializes in figurative oil or acrylic paintings. I am also an illustrator signed to Andrea Brown Literary Agency. My 1st illustrated picture book about Septima Clark, titled “Teacher to a Movement” is slated to come out January 2026.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What was your earliest memory of feeling powerful?
When I was a child, I would frequently experience sleep paralysis or nightmares. It’s crazy how vividly I remember this moment, but because of how fearful I am of tsunamis, they found ways to manifest themselves into my dreams. I always tried to avoid going to bed for this very reason.
I guess you could say these tsunamis also represented my fear of abandonment, due to circumstances I grew up in.
Anyways, one night I had a dream where a tsunami was coming down on me during a sleep paralysis episode, and I felt completely hopeless. I couldn’t breathe, scream or move. But I broke through to myself in my dream and had the ability to recognize that this situation was not real; it was entirely fictional. With that clarity gained, the tsunami split in half and opened a pathway for me to walk through. I had never felt that sense of power or control ever in my life up until that point.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely! I remember being in art school during my 2nd year, and really questioning what I was doing with this degree or my life. Was I learning something that would actually contribute to the society that I live in? Were my skills going to actually be sought after?
I also believed because I was going against the grain of entering certain jobs, especially from a filipino household, that I was sort of a disappointment.
I almost considered quitting and just going to nursing school….however looking at where I am now in life, and the opportunities I have been granted, its furtner confirmation that I went down the path I was meant to travel.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
Improving my mental health is something that I will always prioritize. It determines everything else about me- how I see myself physically, mentally and emotionally; all of these inner perspectives bleed into my professional life and the way I carry myself in all situations.
Of course my art is my therapy and allows me to express things that I cannot find the words for, but I also know when to take a step back from my craft. Doing this allows me to work on myself, and return to my passion with more love in my mind and heart. Love to me means excitement to explore within art and to step into new spaces that accommodate my growth
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope when I’m gone, my family and friends reminisce about my ridiculous stories and they laugh at the silly things I’ve done. I try to not take life too seriously, and I hope that reflects in my daily attitude. I also believe if you’re able to laugh at yourself, you live more life.
I hope people also talk about my art exploration and how I tried to not stay stagnant. You can see even from 2021 to now, the difference in the saturation+colors I use in my paintings. I only hope to become more bold going forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://abigailalbano.com
- Instagram: abigailalbano_
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigailalbano16?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app
Image Credits
Emily Bertucci
