We recently connected with Kay and have shared our conversation below.

Kay, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

2015-2016 was a crucial moment for me transitioning into an artist. I was in my senior year of college struggling but determined to graduate. It was probably the first time I had to sacrifice myself to achieve a goal. Long commutes and long days really took its tolls on me and I was on auto pilot for a year. I had this feeling that if I didn’t have something for myself that’s what the rest of my life would look like. I wasn’t creating at all but I told myself if I get my degree I will focus on art and see where it can take me.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

For those just getting to know me I am a self taught visual artist born and raised in Detroit, MI. I create works of art through illustration and painting, and now murals. My brand/artist name is Freelove Kay and that represents freedom of expression and inspiring others to do the same. Free-love is also a statement to who I am as an individual. I strive to be a loving, supporting and light hearted energy in society. Combining my individuality with my art work I create pieces that the viewer can relate to and even feel on an emotional level. My work consist of bright colors, emotional and spiritual undertones with a twist of surrealism. Being an empath and a conservative person art is how I choose to express myself and connect with my community.

I have always been an art baby, scribbling and drawing for as long as I can remember. I consider art to be a natural force in my life. It’s something I’ve never had to force. I think about it all the time. Even if I’m not creating. I’m creating in my mind, coming up with concepts or thinking about upcoming projects to challenge myself or stay sane. I started my art career in Cleveland, OH I had my first few shows there, worked at the Cleveland Art Museum for 2 years, became a digital art instructor and just used all my money to pour into my supplies and projects. The pandemic in. 2020 is what brought me back to the city due to losing both of my jobs. I took some time to build and start my life over again then I discovered the art scene in Detroit in 2024 and hopped right in and here we are.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is to overcome the constant challenge of creating. Each piece brings its own complex challenges. It forces you to trust yourself and push through to completion. If you freak out, doubt yourself or overthink, it will never get done. So each piece is rewarding to create and makes me proud to be an artist. I still surprise myself.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

Social Media, Instagram specifically played a huge role in my success as an artist. When I graduated college and started focusing on art I told myself I had to post everything I made whether I liked it or not. Even to this day you can go all the way back on my IG and see where I started off.

It didn’t take long for people to start asking me for commissions and buying my drawings and paintings. The more people saw me doing my thing the more people wanted to work with me or simply support me. It wasn’t rocket science I just put myself out there. Waking up early before work creating everyday or once I got off work and uploading my pieces. I was dedicated to getting better and immersing myself into the work. Everything else followed.

My advice to for anyone is to do the same, and not to be afraid to reach out to artists that inspire you. You’d be surprised who is willing to offer advice.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.freelovkay.com
• Instagram: @freelovekay
• Twitter: @freelovekay

Image Credits

Milton Pitts Instagram: @millz_unfiltered