We recently connected with Tristan “Art” and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Tristan , thanks for joining us today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

As an entrepreneur I think there are many risks taken but for me personally I think the biggest risk I took was sacrificing my 20’s to chase a dream with no clear destination. There’s no direct path you can take as an artist to make people love your work. I didn’t grow up rich so I’m making a conscience effort to make sure my kids have that luxury. When I do have them. That’s truly the way to pay it forward in my opinion.

Tristan , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I go by Tristan “Art”. I’m a self taught artist and entrepreneur who’s typically recognized or acknowledged for the work I’ve done for celebrities, athletes and entertainers. I grew up in South Carolina then moved to Baltimore shortly after high school! I’ve designed for many celebrities and talents but I want to be known for the way I make people feel more than people only liking me for the art I do.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

There was a period when I lost everything. I lived in a motel and my little brother’s car for almost 3½ months. I had nights when I wanted to just quit but something wouldn’t allow me to. Even when I get down on myself now I somewhat think of those days! I never allow life’s tests to break me. I went from that to where I am now which is extremely successful! I’m still only about 60% of the man I know I’ll become. So much untapped potential! I’m still putting the life puzzle together so stay tuned.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

For sure. I would definitely say always be as original as possible, don’t oversell and just be real! In a social world where things can be fabricated and everything looks glamorous I think there are still people who love originality! As far as what’s been effective for me it’s pretty much the advice I gave. When I talk to people I have that ability of making them feel like we’ve known each other for 10 years, even on the first conversation. I think that puts the customer at ease when they feel good energy off of the person they are purchasing from. So to be honest I don’t have a clear cut “sales strategy” I’m just me and it’s effective for the most part.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @tristanyv
• Facebook: @tristanyv