Angelica Streetman is one of fashion’s rising stars who is also an incredibly talented visual artist. Streetman boldly acknowledges her Cuban and Jamaican roots, as the source of her luminescent allure and refined artistic sensibilities. “My Caribbean roots come from my father’s side. My grandfather is from Jamaica and my grandmother is from Cuba,” Streetman informed us. In order for us to solidify a united Caribbean identity, it’s imperative for us to acknowledge the contributions of everyone who helped form a part of us. Whether you are currently living in the region or you possess Caribbean roots through your family background, you contribute to the beautiful global perception we have cultivated for ourselves as a region.
Streetman has already inked deals with some of the world’s major modelling agencies such as Ikon Models and Select Model Management and could easily purport herself in an egocentric manner. She is actually quite the opposite. Her personality is a refreshing departure from the narcissism that is pervasive amongst models in this industry. There is a conciliating humility about Streetman’s presence, and she is not consumed by the frivolous hype and social media superficiality that typifies many fashion models of today. Streetman believes the best way to stay grounded in the fashion industry is to remain fearlessly authentic, stating that: “Once you are able to be yourself when coming in to the fashion industry, you will attract people and clients that align perfectly with who you are. They will match your frequency. It’s important to be confident in yourself, which I know can be easier said than done. Confidence comes with time! Over time, all people fully grow into themselves at their own rate. If you are trying to break into the fashion industry, you have to be patient. Not only with others, but with your own self as well.”
Modelling is Streetman is most known for but her outstanding work as a visual artist, is another endearing talent that this multicultural queen possesses. She remains modest about her artistic gifts stating: “I have always considered myself to be creative, but not particularly artistic; so I actually just started painting a few months ago.” The tidyness of Streetman’s brushwork and the accuracy of the character depictions in her paintings, would never indicate that this is a new skill which she recently acquired. In no way does she see this profound new talent as an ego boost; but instead she expresses tremendous gratitude to have found this creative outlet. “I am appreciative for the time I was forced to spend inside during quarantine which helped me to discover this talent, and fortunately enough, I wouldn’t necessarily say I had any insecurities when I was coming out with my art.”
Despite being excited to explore her artistic ability, Streetman was still honest that she struggles with self loathing at times. “I was definitely afraid of what people would say at first. I am my biggest critic, so whenever I finish a piece all I can see are the imperfections – and I do wonder if that’s all others will see as well.” Streetman shared with us her unique perspective on how painting and creativity, in general, can contribute to better mental health. She asserted: “I find painting to be my escape from the world. When I am painting, not much else seems to exist other than the canvas and my thoughts! I most definitely think that creative expression contributes to improving mental health, especially for people who don’t favor verbal expression. Finding creative outlets can help improve mental health because it gives you a way to put out and let go of your emotions without having to actually speak of them.” Streetman is a woman of profound action, but very few words; she ended our conversation by simply saying: “My biggest words of encouragement for any young woman is to be yourself. I know it sounds cliché, but it’s true!”
