We were lucky to catch up with Ania Diallo recently and have shared our conversation below.

Ania, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

At 9Muses Henna we use our art to share stories, preserve culture, and celebrate communities through corporate programming, humanitarian outreach, and the ancient tradition of henna.

9Muses Henna is loosely based on the 9 ancient muses that inspired and protected diverse realms of arts and sciences, influencing the creative pursuits of creatives, celebrations, and communities among them.

Each service we offer is curated with the influence of the muses combined, aimed to highlight annual achievements, honor heritage, and share intimate moments all while utilizing hennas multihyphenate expressions

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Ania Diallo is a multihyphenate visionary and creative strategist dedicated to guiding freelance artists on their journey toward sustainable entrepreneurship. A Louisville, KY native, she relocated to Nashville to establish a “self-residency,” recognizing the need for hands-on industry experience after earning a Bachelor’s degree and over 15 years of expertise in Fine Art. Awarded Best Talent at Murray State University, and recently 2024 GrammyU Nashville Ambassador Ania has since channeled her passion into curating artistic experiences and studying A&R services, all while traveling as a Henna Artist.

Ania offers creative services under 9Muses Henna and artist development and management under her 9Muses Productions inspiring, empowering, and unveiling the cosmic talent within

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

Creativity has always been my passion—I’ve been drawing and painting since I could write. In 2019, I started using henna to boost my painting sales, and during the pandemic, I saw how it brought people together through beauty and celebration. It was a natural fit since I had developed strong penmanship from my art.

As the economy shifted, henna became a more affordable option for clients when painting sales slowed. To stay creative and avoid burnout, I made my own organic, skin-safe henna paste, tailored for darker skin tones. What started as a small offering with my paintings quickly grew into regular bookings, creating a new way for me to stay connected with my community and turning it into a thriving part of my business.

I saw how a little bit of business strategy was able open doors that were not originally available to me through a fish eye lens. Henna allowed me to combine passion and business. Through this, I strive to influence other artists to sustain their passion while developing a craft that pays them monetarily but expands them spiritually

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

Encouragement. We encourage strangers all the time. Lets encourage your sisters, your daughters, your brothers, your cousins. With the right encouragement that “silly little craft” can turn into a spaceship ! You just might help cultivate the next Basquiat or Whitney Houston.

Contact Info:

• Website: www,9Museshenna.com
• Instagram: @9Muses.henna
• Facebook: Ania K Diallo
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aniadiallo/
• Other: Check out my artist 94Drow! on all streaming platforms