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

Crissi, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

I had a vision about women and their hair being underrepresented in the art world likely sparked a desire to explore this theme creatively. Perhaps you saw an opportunity to challenge traditional representations and stereotypes through your art. This could involve showcasing the diversity and beauty of women’s hair in ways that hadn’t been done before, whether through painting, sculpture, photography, or another medium. Pursuing this path likely involved a combination of artistic expression, cultural commentary, and a commitment to highlighting the often overlooked aspects of women’s experiences.

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.

I am a contemporary artist and also the founder of KC Curly .

KC Curly is a large-scale natural hair photo shoot aimed at celebrating and embracing the inherent beauty of individuals’ hair, skin, and bodies as they were naturally created. This empowering event served as a poignant moment of self-affirmation and collective empowerment, highlighting the diverse beauty and inherent dignity of each participant. Through carefully curated imagery and inclusive representation, the photo shoot underscored the importance of self-acceptance and self-love, while also challenging societal norms and promoting a culture of inclusivity and empowerment.

My Art is known for my vibrant and expressive artworks. Inspired by nature, culture, and the human experience, I create visually captivating pieces that invite viewers to dive into a world of emotion and imagination.

With a background in my artistic journey, I combine traditional techniques with innovative approaches to push the boundaries of my chosen medium. My distinct style incorporates a harmonious blend of bold brushstrokes, intricate details, and rich textures, resulting in captivating compositions that evoke a sense of wonder and introspection.

Throughout my artistic journey, I have explored various themes, including those deeply rooted in my personal experiences. These themes provide a lens through which I explore identity, relationships, and the intricacies of the human condition.

My work has been exhibited in galleries and art fairs both nationally and internationally, drawing admiration from collectors and art enthusiasts alike. My dedication to my craft and commitment to creating meaningful and impactful art have earned me recognition, awards, and grants.

By sharing my creative vision, I aim to inspire others to embrace their own creativity and connect with the beauty and complexity of the world around them. With each new artwork, I strive to ignite a spark of curiosity and encourage viewers to engage in a dialogue about the universal emotions and experiences that bind us all.

Whether it’s through my vivid landscapes, evocative portraits, or thought-provoking installations, I invite you to embark on a visual journey that celebrates the power of art to transcend boundaries and foster connection.

On the first Friday of each month, we host an art exhibition in the Crossroads district that celebrates and showcases the work of artists of color. This initiative aims to provide a platform for underrepresented artists to share their unique perspectives and talents with the community. Through these curated showcases, we foster a diverse and inclusive artistic environment, promoting cultural exchange and dialogue while amplifying the voices of marginalized artists.

One of my proudest achievements lies in the impactful work I’ve undertaken within the community called KC Curly .
Through my art, I’ve cultivated a significant following centered around celebrating natural hair and embracing one’s authentic self. This community serves as a platform for fostering inclusivity, empowerment, and self-confidence.

I am deeply committed to bringing people together through the transformative power of art. Whether through exhibitions, workshops, or collaborative projects, I strive to create spaces where individuals can explore and celebrate their identities freely. My dedication to community engagement underscores my belief in the importance of art as a catalyst for social change and personal growth.

In addition to my community-focused endeavors, my artwork itself serves as a testament to my values and vision. Each piece is imbued with a sense of vibrancy, expression, and cultural resonance, inviting viewers to connect on both an emotional and intellectual level. Through my distinct style and thematic exploration, I aim to provoke thought, evoke emotion, and inspire positive action.

Ultimately, I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my brand is not just about creating art—it’s about creating meaningful connections and fostering positive change. Whether through my community involvement, artistic endeavors, or personal ethos, I am dedicated to making a difference in the world and empowering others to do the same.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Throughout my journey, I have encountered numerous health challenges that tested my resilience. Despite these obstacles, I found solace and strength in my passion for art and community building. Art became not only a creative outlet but also a source of healing and empowerment during difficult times.

In the face of adversity, I leaned into my artistic endeavors, using them as a means to navigate through the complexities of my health struggles.
I was in pain for long periods of times and art helped me cope with what I was going through . Whether through the process of creation or the connections forged within my community, I discovered a profound sense of purpose and resilience.

Art served as a catalyst for personal growth and transformation, enabling me to overcome obstacles and emerge stronger than before. Through perseverance and determination, I not only persevered through my health challenges but also found fulfillment in the meaningful impact of my creative endeavors.

Ultimately, my resilience in the face of adversity exemplifies the transformative power of art and community. It is through these experiences that I have grown as an individual and emerged with a deeper appreciation for the healing and transformative potential of creativity.

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

In 2015, I made the deliberate decision to transition from my professional career to become a stay-at-home parent. While adjusting to this significant lifestyle change, I found myself navigating unfamiliar territory, as I had grown accustomed to a fast-paced and busy routine. However, it was during this period of transition that I began to prioritize and invest more deeply in my artistic pursuits.

Embracing my newfound role as a stay-at-home mom provided me with the opportunity to dedicate substantial time and energy to my passion for art. Freed from the constraints of a traditional work schedule, I was able to immerse myself in creative exploration and development. This marked a pivotal moment in my art journey, as I seized the chance to take my craft more seriously and commit to its growth and evolution.

The transition to stay-at-home parenthood not only allowed me the flexibility to pursue my artistic ambitions but also provided a fertile environment for creative inspiration. It was very hard for me at first until I started to find myself again through my art .

Through this professional shift, I discovered the transformative power of embracing change , the power of motherhood & womenhood and embracing new opportunities for personal and artistic growth. It served as a testament to the resilience and adaptability inherent within me, propelling me further along my artistic journey with renewed my determination to be an advocate for women in our community.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.crissicurly.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crissitheartist?igsh=MXI5MWFwYWlsODNzZA==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Crissicurly?mibextid=2JQ9oc
• Other: Kc curly website www.kccurly.com Ig https://www.instagram.com/kccurly?igsh=MWR6ajV0ZWIwdjhhNQ==

Image Credits
Photo credit : Laura Morsman https://www.instagram.com/lauramorsmanphotography?igsh=MW9ieDU3emduYnJxag==