Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kiara Santos. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Kiara, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you take us back in time to the first dollar you earned as a creative – how did it happen? What’s the story?

Allow me to take you back to the days we were confined by our four walls and our main source of communication was via zoom. On the day I earned my first dollar, my ex-husband became a pretend auctioneer. We had approximately 7 or 8 family and friends, on zoom, bidding on my artwork. It was a day full of love and support. Shortly after, one of the bidders asked for an enlarged version of the piece she purchased, and that was the first dollar I earned as a creative.

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

The start of my journey is simple – covid made me do it. I began painting small canvases and later, transitioned to larger pieces. Eventually, I helped paint a mural and now I am working on something new and different (it’s a secret). The hardest part of the process, for me, is the doubt that creeps in before I finish a piece. When I look back at those images that we auctioned to friends and family, I cringe because I’ve come such a long way; that’s what motivates me to keep pushing forward.

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

The freedom to be me. Cliche’, I know. but think about that for a second. How often do we do and say things for the sake others? Not to say that we shouldn’t do for others because there is value in that. However, there is also value in allowing yourself (and others) the freedom to just be. Art does that for me. If you’re wondering what inspires my work… the outlet is my inspo, nothing else. In fact, when I paint without a plan, I end with a masterpiece.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

Fear is paralyzing. Everyday, I remind myself that I can do hard things. My all time favorite quote, by Tracy Malone, is “sometimes the fear won’t go away, so you’ll have to do it afraid.” I had to stop doubting my abilities and being fearful of causing disappointment.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @kiarasantos.art @ki.iveliz

Image Credits
@bswagphotography @avalon6ix