We recently connected with Cassy Karyshyn and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Cassy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I first realized my passion for art could become a professional path during high school when friends asked me to customize their belongings. I painted my first pair of custom shoes at age sixteen and started posting photos of my art on social media under the name Cassy Kustoms. As I began sharing my process videos, I slowly grew my presence on various platforms. Initially, I accepted every request I received, but as I graduated high school and gained more experience, I started to select projects that truly inspired me. The paint brand I use, Angelus Direct, has been especially supportive in the growth of my brand. Four years after my first custom and countless hours of practice later, I’m now sharing my story through this interview!

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

I’m Cassy, a 20-year-old from Maryland and a junior in college studying graphic design. I’m passionate about Jesus, peanut butter, room-temperature coffee, hanging with my friends, humor, and, of course, painting! It might seem like a coincidence that someone who wasn’t initially a sneaker enthusiast became a sneaker artist, but I think it is my love for painting anything I can get my hands on that naturally led me to this niche market. I provide custom artwork for clients and brands worldwide, sew and alter clothing for local clients, and create content to inspire others. I started my art business, Cassy Kustoms, over four years ago at age sixteen. Since then, I have made artwork for many people across the world, been supported by Angelus Direct paint brand, gained over 118 thousand followers on Instagram, gotten two of my custom sneakers into a Smithsonian-affiliated art gallery, and so much more that little childhood aspiring artist me could never have dreamed of!
Sharing my artwork through photos and videos has been a key part of my success, and I’ve gained valuable knowledge about social media and content creation through experience. Being an artist involves much more than just painting; I handle everything from photography and videography to editing and customer service. My process most often begins with clients finding me through social media and submitting a request through my website. While I wish I could take every order, I only accept those that genuinely excite me. Creating artwork that I am personally passionate about results in my highest quality work. Once a project is confirmed, I create a digital art mock-up and collaborate with the client to design something that exceeds their expectations.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Many people underestimate the possibilities within a career like mine, but the reality is, I can explore countless opportunities! I thrive on the diversity and excitement of being self-employed. Every day is different, filled with new tasks and creative challenges.
One of my favorite projects to do are custom wedding sneakers. I love seeing clients surprise their significant others with my artwork on their special day! Receiving photos from weddings and seeing my creations in action is incredibly rewarding. It’s a special feeling to contribute to such memorable moments. I am so thankful for all chances to create art and put the K in Kustom.

How did you build your audience on social media?

By doing what I love to do, I have had opportunities to do even more of what I love to do! Therefore, my advice to any creative out there is to embrace every opportunity to pursue what you love. Don’t be afraid to say no to projects that don’t interest you, but also challenge yourself with assignments that push your creativity. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who inspire and support you. Balancing projects that spark your inspiration with those that push your boundaries will ultimately help you grow as an artist.
I have learned that confidence only comes when you have security in who you are- not who anyone else says you are. Comparison leads to insecurity but, celebrating others defeats comparison! Working for the Lord rather than seeking approval from others has been crucial in my journey. This mindset has been especially important since my work is highly visible online. I have found that the greatest growth for my brand came when I surrendered my art to my savior, Jesus Christ.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://cassykustoms.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassykustoms/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070032241134
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassy-karyshyn-44a6a2217/
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@cassykustoms?si=U-vzyRuKCSXTK60L
• Other: https://cassandrasart.com

Image Credits

Headshot by Theo Setse
Painting headshot by Victoria Maxwell Photography