We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Travon Lee. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Travon below.

Alright, Travon thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Almost every entrepreneur we know has considered donating a portion of their sales to an organization or cause – how did you make the decision of whether to donate? We’d love to hear the backstory if you’re open to sharing the details.

I’m donating 25% of all paintings sold from my next art show titled “We All Need Love”. I’m choosing to donate to Atlanta heart in order to benefit anyone having trouble affording medication or anything necessary for their heart treatment.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Travon Lee, and I was born on May 15, 1991, in Miami, Florida, and raised in the vibrant city of Opa-locka. My creative journey started in high school when I began customizing my own shoes, not merely as an artistic pursuit, but as a means of ensuring my individuality. Initially, I reimagined Air Force 1s to express my unique style, and it wasn’t until years later that I transitioned to painting on canvas. This pivotal shift was inspired by the captivating work of an artist named Reem Heffner from Moreno Valley, California, whose abstract tree paintings left a lasting impression on me.

While my first attempts at painting may have fallen short of my aspirations, I was driven by a relentless desire to improve. Embracing my passion for art wasn’t the conventional choice at the time, and the path to financial stability was far from clear. Nevertheless, I remained committed, carving out my own niche which I proudly named Opin Creations. This distinctive style blends captivating characters with mesmerizing, psychedelic linework, lending a unique flair to everything it touches. This fusion of art and individuality sets me apart within my field.

My creations span a diverse range, from bespoke paintings to custom footwear, lamps, ski masks, socks, shirts, and digital art. While these offerings reflect my artistic versatility, they only scratch the surface of what I aspire to represent as an artist. Through years of growth and self-discovery, I’ve come to realize that my skills are a powerful tool for something greater. As I continue to evolve, I aim to channel my artistry towards meaningful endeavors that align with my values. These future achievements will stand as testaments to my unwavering dedication to the passion I fell in love with thirteen years ago.

Alright – let’s talk about marketing or sales – do you have any fun stories about a risk you’ve taken or something else exciting on the sales and marketing side?

I once experienced a remarkable turn of events when I visited The Garden Room, a restaurant in Buckhead, Atlanta, with the intention of presenting the Head Chef with a few gifts and possibly securing a place for one or two of my paintings in the establishment. As we ascended to the upper floor and he began to guide me through the restaurant, he shared the names of the legendary artists whose works adorned the walls, making me realize that my artistry was a far cry from such esteemed company. Despite this, I proceeded to present him with the gifts I had brought, withholding the large canvas roll I had with me until he inquired about it. Upon unrolling the canvas, he was immediately captivated and began envisioning a space for it in his own home.

At that moment, I had not yet made a sale exceeding $500, and I had initially contemplated leaving the painting in my car. Disheartened by the realization that my work might not grace the restaurant’s walls, I hesitated to showcase my latest creation. However, to my astonishment, the Head Chef expressed an unwavering desire to purchase the painting, disregarding any concerns about its fit within his home. His decision was resolute; he simply had to have that particular piece. I was overcome with emotion, almost moved to tears by the unexpected turn of events.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

Amidst the many voices, including those closest to me, echoing the belief that there’s no real financial viability in art, I found myself grappling with doubts and skepticism. Initially, I brushed off these sentiments, as my passion for art eclipsed any concern for financial gain. However, as I made the bold decision to leave my job and fully commit to my artistic pursuit, the absence of immediate financial returns seemed to validate the prevailing notion. At that point, my art was still in its early stages, bearing the marks of an amateur, and my faith in my abilities often outstripped my actual skill.

Yet, a crucial lesson gradually took root within me: the importance of perseverance and an unwavering commitment to one’s beliefs. Despite the initial hardships, I refused to succumb to the notion of being a perpetually struggling artist. I held fast to my passion, weathering the challenges with resilience and determination. Today, as I reflect on my journey, I stand as living proof that I am no longer a starving artist. I owe this transformation not only to my unwavering faith but also to the divine gift of creativity and the unyielding support of those who have championed me from the outset.

To all who have stood by me, old and new supporters alike, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation. Your belief in my vision and your unwavering support have been invaluable, and I am deeply grateful for each and every one of you.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/opincreatedyou?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Other: Website under construction, will be back up soon prepping it for next art show and new promotions.