The Spark with Phoebe Witmer
We started Pot Plant to break down an unfair stigma that this magical plant has been given. Stoners and non-stoners alike should be proud to stand up for the plant and show their support for it. We believe in opening up to others, not holding back, and showcasing what makes you, you. No fake shit.. except for fake plants.
Our muse this month is Phoebe Witmer -- the visionary behind PBW Studios. Phoebe is a Philly-based boudoir & portrait photographer. She is interested in capturing individualism, eroticism, and the divine nature of humankind that manifests through various forms of personal expression. She embodies creativity in each aspect of her life, and the magical plant we all know and love helps her access this creative energy.
As an extroverted introvert, you can find her either living her best grandma life (reading & crocheting with her cat) or out on the town making new connections over cocktails.
Say high to Phoebe
PP: What hobby have you discovered or rediscovered while you’ve been spending more time at home?
PW: Since lockdown, one of my new favorite hobbies is making miniature rooms of my dreams. It’s been so fun to be able to create a space with found materials, and imagine yourself existing with in.
PP: How do you spark creativity and inspiration?
PW: Inspiration and creativity are in constant flow in my mind. We are surrounded by magic in every moment of our existence so I really try to pull from my everyday experiences and dreams.
PP: What’s your favorite artist, song or playlist right now that inspires your work/creativity at home?
PW: My absolute favorite artists are Dr. Dog and Fleet Foxes. I always come back to them when I need a boost- there’s something about knowing every single piece of a song that sends energy throughout my whole body and reminds me how grateful I am to be human
PP: What’s your favorite spot at home and why?PW: My room is my absolute favorite spot in my house because it feels like such an extension of myself. It feels so sacred, and I have developed intimate rituals for myself within this space. It feels safe, nourishing, & full of life.
PP: Do you have any home projects going on now?
PW: My photography studio is actually in my home, so there’s always fun projects happening around me. I’m currently working on building out a set for the summer equinox which I am really excited about- featuring elves and fairies in a magical mushroom scape!
PP: Where are your Pot Plants in your home, and what kind of conversations have they sparked?
PW: My pot plants are currently residing in my room since it’s where I spend most of my time 💚 My guests typically assume they are real plants until I reveal their true identity as an incredibly detailed decoration. All of my besties are stoners so they all admire them but then get sad that there’s no real buds growing on them lol
PP: What was your first perception of the plant, and what do you think about it now?
PW: My first perception was definitely full of bullshit. I remember winning the D.A.R.E. award in elementary school because I was a little over achiever, but as soon as my friends started smoking in 10th grade, I wanted to join and fell in love. Now, I see it as a healing medicinal plant that everyone deserves access to. I think that we as a society need to release the false narratives around it, especially those that criminalize people of color for using it at the same rate as white folks. While POC sit in jail waiting for justice, the legal industry is now worth $20 billion, and only 5% of owners are Black. I think one of the things we can do on an individual level is to support the organizations that are fighting for equity like The Last Prisoners Project, MJ Matters, and Project Rebound.