We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Maria Delvs a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Maria thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Any thoughts about whether to ask friends and family to support your business. What’s okay in your view?

I’ve never felt weird about asking my friends or family to support me and my endeavors. It’s such a natural ask. Usually once people see your motivation, they usually help and support organically. I think it’s appropriate to ask for a repost or a shout out on social platforms. Also a honest recommendation whenever appropriate. Of course I wouldn’t ask for any cash unless it was in support of a charitable organization I was collaborating with. That’s the only exception.

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?

My name is Maria , aka Delvs, and I am a Multidisciplinary artist from Miami. My background is Graffiti and street art but have been showing in galleries for over a decade. I started my journey tagging and doing characters on trains and walls. From there my work evolved into more elaborate murals and paintings. I have recently gotten into visual consulting and design. Bringing a clients ideas into reality by offering different mediums and creative interpretations is so rewarding. Commission work is my favorite. Not only does it keep me on my toes but it also helps build my portfolios diversity. I use bold Line-work and color ways that bring an array of emotions to my work. Inspired by the female form and Mother Nature I can express my self in the fullest way. Art is my outlet and my number 1!

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

What’s help build my reputation is consistency and dependability. I have always had to hear how flakey and flighty artists are. How we can’t hit deadlines etc. I have focused on delivering reasonable and realistic price and time estimates in projected projects. That in-itself is the key to my success. I have clients who are amazed at my ability to be flexible but still meet the projected price and deadline. My advice to anyone is sticking to your word. The best way to establish yourself in any market is delivering as promised.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

The best source still for getting new clients is face to face interactions. I have found that just putting yourself out there even in the most everyday outings is what works. Small talk anywhere should included your business info everywhere. I always try to tell everyone I meet a little about me. That includes my art, why I love doing it , and what I can do for them. Face time is so rare and important now a days, why waste it ?! Get out there and shake some hands, It’s makes a world of difference.

Contact Info:

• Website: Delvs.com
• Instagram: @delvs102
• Linkedin: Maria Delvs