We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Ebony Bennett a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Ebony, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.
The Brewerytown Garden in my North Philadelphia neighborhood is a safe place where I can decompress from everyday stress. After a rough day at work, I would walk to the garden and find a spot when I can sit down and draw in my sketchbook. It’s the best feeling ever. I love that garden. For the past few years, I was asked by members of the garden if I would be interested in teaching children’s arts and crafts workshops throughout the summer, Without hesitation, I accepted the offer. In the summer of 2021, I created a “I love my fruits and Veggies” paint project. On wooden panels, I sketched out pictures of fruits and vegetables you can find growing in the garden and had the little ones paint them. At completion, their artwork was mounted outside the garden gates for everyone to see. They were proud to see their artwork on display. They received so many compliments in their works of art. I was and still am honored to have had the opportunity to take part in that worthwhile project.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Ebony Bennett, a self-taught visual artist born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. I portrait painting. in acrylics. I create, sell and showcase my works of art in local art exhibitions throughout Philly. Recently, I have been focusing on hosting paint parties. At my paint parties, I provide my clients with a stress-free painting experience. In the past, I’ve had several clients who became frustrated with trying to follow step-by-step painting instructions or just wasn’t happy with the painting by the end of the class. I want my clients to have fun and enjoy painting. Now, I provide each guest with an imaged canvas that guarantees to them “Leave with a Masterpiece” every time.
How did you build your audience on social media?
I’ve created my Instagram back in 2017. In the beginning, I would post several times a day to help build my audience. I would post about, work in progress art, trips to museums, upcoming exhibitions and anything that had to do with my art life. For those who are just starting to build their social media presence, post your your art even when you don’t think its good enough to share. Share it and inspire the world.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
I bought a book last year called ” Pocket Maya Angelou Wisdom”. It’s a small book filled with some of Angelou’s most inspirational quotes. My favorite quote is “You can’t use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have”. This quotes has encouraged me to try new materials and techniques when those moment when i feel like I am running out of ingenuity.
Contact Info:
- Website: ebennettart.com
- Instagram: @ebennettart