We were lucky to catch up with Chanel Bee recently and have shared our conversation below.

Chanel, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Was there an experience or lesson you learned at a previous job that’s benefited your career afterwards?

In my past role in corporate cannabis sales, I confronted a challenging yet transformative realization: the importance of honoring one’s true self. This position demanded a level of conformity that felt increasingly constricting. My natural outgoing and creative personality, along with aspects of my personal life, such as being polyamorous and ethically non-monogamous (ENM), and my passion as a content creator, were aspects I felt pressured to hide in a professional setting. This experience of suppressing who I was on a daily basis led to a profound personal awakening.

When I eventually left that position, I made a promise to myself – a vow of personal authenticity. I resolved never to work in an environment where I felt judged or compelled to conceal my true identity and values. This lesson transcends beyond mere professional guidance; it’s a commitment to self-respect and authenticity. It’s about recognizing that our unique identities and life choices are not just facets of who we are, but are central to how we engage with the world and contribute meaningfully in our professional endeavors. This realization has not just been liberating; it’s been foundational in how I approach my career and life choices moving forward.

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?

Hello! I’m Chanel Bee, an entrepreneur with a multifaceted career. By day, I immerse myself in the world of marketing and web design, focusing primarily on helping artists and small businesses develop and enhance their brands. My expertise lies in understanding the unique needs of creative individuals and enterprises, tailoring strategies that resonate with their audiences and amplify their presence.

Simultaneously, I am a dedicated recovery coach, guiding individuals on their journey to overcome substance use addiction. This role reflects my commitment to making a positive impact in people’s lives, providing support, and fostering resilience and empowerment.

But there’s another side to me – by night, I transform into Peachy Queen, the founder of Peachy Queen Creatives. This venture is where my creativity truly comes alive. I specialize in crafting raunchy, eye-catching 3D printed home decor, a niche that allows me to blend artistry with bold expression. Additionally, I create unique festival sunglasses and jewelry, utilizing upcycled beads, rhinestones, and charms. My creations are not just accessories; they’re statements of individuality and celebration of self-expression.

What sets me apart is this blend of professionalism, compassion, and uninhibited creativity. Whether I’m helping a business find its voice, supporting someone through recovery, or creating daring and vibrant art, my work is always about empowering others to be their true selves and embrace their journey with confidence.

I’m most proud of my ability to navigate these diverse roles seamlessly, each fueled by a deep passion for making a difference. For potential clients, followers, or fans, I want you to know that engaging with my work, whether in marketing, coaching, or through Peachy Queen Creatives, means joining a journey of authenticity, resilience, and unapologetic self-expression.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, the greatest reward of being an artist and creative lies in the freedom to continuously connect with and nurture my inner rebellious spirit. It’s about letting my ‘freak flag’ fly unabashedly, serving as a beacon for others, especially young, emerging artists. This act of self-expression is not just about showcasing my uniqueness; it’s an invitation for others to explore and embrace their own distinctiveness.

Being an artist allows me to challenge norms and push boundaries, not just in the realm of creativity but also in personal identity and expression. I believe in the power of art to inspire and empower. By openly celebrating my quirks and individuality, I hope to encourage others to take that leap of faith, to trust in their talents and visions. In a world where negativity and conformity often overshadow uniqueness, I see my art as a statement of defiance and a call to action.

It’s about spreading your ‘weird,’ falling in love with it, and finding a community that cherishes and appreciates it. This journey of self-acceptance and communal support is transformative. It fosters a world where creativity thrives, not just as a solitary endeavor, but as a collective celebration of diversity and authenticity. That, to me, is the essence of being an artist and creative – it’s a journey of continuous self-discovery and communal empowerment.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

To truly support artists and foster a vibrant creative ecosystem, society needs to prioritize representation and visibility in all its forms. Growing up, I was exposed to a wide array of artistic expressions, from the curated walls of museums to the vibrant and raw street art that adorned urban corners. This broad exposure shaped my understanding of art as a diverse and inclusive field, far beyond the classical definitions confined to gallery walls.

The key is to embrace and showcase the full spectrum of artistic expression. Art is a deeply personal creation, a reflection of the artist’s life and experiences. It’s often more raw, more scandalous, more reflective of the day-to-day realities than what we traditionally see in places like the Louvre. Society needs to celebrate this diversity of art – not just the classical and mainstream but also the street art, mixed media, and works that resonate with everyday people.

By giving visibility to all forms of art, we acknowledge that creativity is not a monolith but a vast landscape of expression. This includes art that challenges norms, that speaks to urban experiences, or that explores themes deemed too provocative for conventional spaces. When we show more of this ‘real’ art – the pieces that might be scandalous, promiscuous, or unorthodox – we validate the experiences and voices of a broader range of artists. This inclusivity not only enriches our cultural fabric but also empowers artists to create without fear of censorship or marginalization.

Supporting a thriving creative ecosystem means dismantling the barriers that keep diverse artistic voices in the shadows. It’s about creating platforms where all artists can showcase their work and ensuring that their contributions are recognized and valued. This approach not only nurtures the artistic community but also enriches society as a whole, offering a more authentic and multifaceted understanding of the world through the lens of art.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.peachyqueencreatives.shop/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peachyqueencreatives/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PeachyQueenCreatives

Image Credits
Headshot by: Jessica Maes, amaesingmomentsphotography All other photos: Peachy Queen Creatives