We recently connected with Brianna Knisely and have shared our conversation below.

Brianna, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I first knew that I wanted to pursue a creative path professionally when I realized it was a possibility, in the summer of 2022. I had just gone back to school and gained a lot of confidence. I began by making earrings, called Breashells, and was surprised when my friends and family started wearing them. One thing led to another, and I realized that opportunities for people with ambition are abundant. It’s been a wild and eye opening year, and this is just the beginning.

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?

I am a 28 year old artist and musician from Independence, Missouri, now living in a studio apartment in Jax Beach, Florida. I have spent most of my adult life working in the food service industry. Last year, I envisioned what my life would look like if I put more effort and care into it. I revisited passions and talents that I had developed as a teenager but left behind in Missouri. Some of those are jewelry design, painting, illustrating, storytelling, and playing the guitar. Arts markets, commissions, and an art show are some of the accomplishments I’ve added to my CV recently. I’m just starting out as a creative professional and I’m looking forward to continued growth in my career.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

People following a different life path than myself might misunderstand my efforts because my influences are vast and nontraditional.

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

I’m actually at a pivot point right now, and it’s not the most northeastern seat at the table! Restaurant reference – don’t mind me. I’m switching gears from being an arts market vendor to being a gigging musician. I’ve been sharpening my guitar playing skills, practicing vocal exercises, and relearning blues and classic rock songs that shaped my playing so many years ago. I’ve even gone out of my comfort zone and learned a couple of modern songs! My next step is to start actually playing gigs.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @sustangsally

Image Credits
Jaxarcana