We were lucky to catch up with Andre Sullivan recently and have shared our conversation below.

Andre , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Day to day the world can seem like a tough place, but there’s also so much kindness in the world and we think talking about that kindness helps spread it and make the world a nicer, kinder place. Can you share a story of a time when someone did something really kind for you?

The kindest thing I’ve received was word of mouth advertising. When I began painting my biggest fear was that no one would want or like my work. I’ve known artists that have been painting for years and have never crossed that threshold. When you’re creating the only thing that should matter is making that idea tangible but you hope that maybe someone will see a piece of themselves in your work and fall in love with it the same way you have. After I started posting my work online and doing exhibitions the word spread rapidly. It almost seemed miraculous. I would be referred for projects based on a previous interactions or just out of the kindness of someone’s heart. When I began I still had a lot to learn but it didn’t stop people from telling others about me and my work. That connection gives you a confidence I don’t believe can be taught but has to be nurtured. I’ve carried that with me for years now.

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

A little about myself.. I’m a teaching artist at an elementary school. I thought since I didn’t go to school for art I could become a teacher and learn the fundamentals with my scholars. I’m also a children’s author and illustrator. I’ve written 4 books myself and illustrated about 10 for other people. I helped cofound a non profit that mentors to young men from my community. I’m also a TedX presenter and muralist. A wearer of many hats.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Painting was my pivot. When I began painting I was at a point in my life where I was I felt like something had to give. I hated my job and I was depressed after losing some of my key family members. I really needed a change. I felt stagnant and then the pandemic happened. I’ve tried to paint my entire life but I’ve never been able to retain a technique. Since I wasn’t working in that time I dedicated all of my time to trying to get better and that’s when it all clicked. I have to give this craft 100% of my focus if I want to see results and the results came.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

I like to look out for people. For example If someone needed me to create a piece for someone that’s passed away and they only had enough for a smaller canvas I’ll make it 3x the size you asked for because it meant a lot to me to be given the opportunity. I like to make people feel included in my journey so I like to share upcoming projects and try to give as much behind the scenes info as possible. If I do reach the success I’d like to I know it wasn’t on my own and I have a community of folks who’ll feel just as proud because without them this wouldn’t have been possible.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @1DreSully

Image Credits

All pictures were provided by Andre Sullivan