We were lucky to catch up with Brett Tachi recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Brett thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?

I actually think about this a lot, which is ironic because I’ve had “regular” jobs, and all I used to think about was what it would be like to be an artist. But now that I’m on the other side, I’m faced with the reality of running a business based on something that is so incredibly personal, and to put it simply, it’s both exhilarating and f*cking scary.

Being an artist requires a ton of vulnerability because you’re not just selling a product or technical service that you can remove yourself from. When I make art for a job, whether it’s a mural, illustration, etc., I’m creating something that is inextricably tied to my identity and who I am, and as a result, I often put a lot of unnecessary pressure and criticism on myself. It can be exhausting and lead to creative burnout. I try to work through those feelings when they come up because I think it is helpful as an artist to be able to separate myself from my work at times, especially for more commercial projects, but it’s a process!

So yes, there are moments when I wish my livelihood was something that I wasn’t so deeply connected to because it can feel heavy at times. But I know that’s just the survival side of my brain trying to protect me from stress and the possibility of rejection of the self, because like I said, being an artist is so personal. At the end of the day, I know that nothing else would satisfy my creative soul and I’m beyond grateful to do what I do.

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

Hi!! My name is Brett Tachi. I’m a self-taught artist born and raised in Orlando, FL. I’ve been practicing art for as long as I can remember and I’m very grateful to have felt this calling early on in life. I’m heavily inspired by nature, art nouveau, ornamental art, pop art and traditional Japanese art.

Before I started working as an artist, I got by working in restaurants for several years, doing small commissions on the side every so often. I really feel like we would have a much more empathetic society if everyone worked in the service industry at least once in their lives…I’d like to think so at least. I joined a small mural company in 2018 and it was the first time (for me) that a full-time creative pursuit felt feasible.

Currently, I’m freelancing through my business, Tachi Design Co. I specialize in murals, graphic design, and illustration but I also have experience with scenic art and faux finish. I love working with clients to discover visual identity and beautify spaces with thoughtful art and design. I’m able to work in a variety of different styles and art directions which is important because every client has different wants and needs.

At the time of writing this, I feel like I’m on the cusp of a mini renaissance with my personal art practice and it’s really exciting! I’ve devoted the last few years to commercial and client work and I’m starting to balance out and prioritize creativity for myself again. There are a ton of ideas and mediums I want to dive into, like music, printmaking and functional art. I’d like to open an online shop in the near future so stay tuned!

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

Buy their sh*t!!! Lol, but seriously, we’re neck-deep in capitalism so if you’re able to financially support artists and creators, that’s hugely helpful. Aside from financial support, the most meaningful thing you can do is just find artists whose work you genuinely connect with and share it with family and friends and anyone you think might be into it too! And even a few kind words or affirmations sent an artist’s way can make their week; it’s really rewarding to know that people are connecting with what we do.
It’s easy to take art for granted sometimes, but it’s important to remember that our world would be so bleak without it. Whenever you come across something you truly resonate with, especially when we’re so often just going through the motions every day, take a moment to be fully present and take it in.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

When I work with clients, it really is a collaborative process, and it’s very fulfilling to be able to use my skills to help people bring their vision to life in a way that they maybe couldn’t on their own.

Personally, it’s always exciting to turn an idea that only exists in my head into something real and tangible.

Contact Info:

• Website: tachidesignco.com
• Instagram: @brett_tachi

Image Credits
Shannon Ball