We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Chanel Kincaid a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Chanel, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.

This past January, I finally decided to quit my miserable job and become a full-time creative. Between my consistent DJ gigs and designing fliers, I’ve been able to get by. Sometimes imposter syndrome gets in my way, but the support and validation I receive from the community is a reminder that investing in myself was the right decision.

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

I am a DJ, graphic designer and event curator. I first became interested in digital art during high school, and I worked at several venues which piqued my interest in booking and event production. I’ve always felt heavily inspired by music, fashion and film, and those influences are reflected in everything I create. I make fliers and logos mostly to promote myself and other local artists, but I would love to take on more clients and experiment with different styles. Even if no one knows who you are, an eye-catching flier or logo can really boost your audience. I don’t think I have a signature style yet, my taste is constantly evolving, but that makes it more fun for me.

I think I’ve grown a lot this year. I’ve had the opportunity to open for CupcakKe, Dorian Electra and Dream Doll, all within a month. I’m happy to be thriving as an individual, but I’m most proud of Femmedom, a party series I co-founded with my creative partner and fellow DJ Petra Steele, and our visual projectionist, Renee Willoughby, who later joined our team. It started as a small dance party at Outer Limits Lounge in 2021, and eventually grew into one of the biggest queer parties in the city. Femmedom is a celebration of femme power in music and fashion and sexual liberation. It’s also a celebration of femininity in general, and how it can be expressed in different ways. Expect monthly themes, trippy visuals, sexy femme vocals over club beats and good company. It’s an experience.

The party is queer and femme centered, but everyone is welcome as long as they’re respectful. We take the safety of our staff and attendees very seriously, and anyone who violates that will be removed from our events. If you’re curious, you can find us once a month at UFO Factory in Corktown. I love hosting parties, but I’m open to more collaborations with different organizers, or even stepping into a creative director role. Hit me up!

IG: @auntiechanel, @femmedom_det

Portfolio: https://auntiechanel.myportfolio.com/work

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

I wish that I could create without feeling like I have to monetize every skill I have to survive, but at the same time I feel very blessed to work for myself on my own terms.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

I’m hoping my success in the scene as a fat black queer woman will inspire more of us to organize events and open venues. But my personal goals are to play more festivals and go on tour.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: auntiechanel

Image Credits
all fliers by me, all photos by Ari Bardallis (IG @internetpresents)