Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ellicia Mitchell. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Ellicia, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What do you think Corporate America gets wrong in your industry? Any stories or anecdotes that illustrate why this matters?

Corporate America often misunderstands the art world in several ways, leading to missed opportunities and misaligned objectives. Corporations frequently prioritize profitability over artistic integrity, pushing for artworks that are commercially viable rather than creatively groundbreaking. Businesses often have a short-term focus on quarterly results, which contrasts with the long-term development and appreciation of art. Great art can take years to create and may not yield immediate financial returns. Corporate entities might lack the cultural sensitivity needed to understand and appreciate the depth and context of certain artworks. This can lead to the appropriation of cultural symbols without proper recognition or respect for their origins and meanings. Corporations may undervalue the role of the artist, treating them as art dealers rather than professionals.

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

My name is Ellicia Mitchell aka Buffy. I’m 41 years old. I’m from Port Arthur, TX. My family is naturally talented in artistry. I became more exposed to art throughout grade school. Most students took these art courses as electives, however, they were core classes for me. In the 4th grade, I recall showcasing my artwork for my dad’s Safety Calendar at a local refinery for a couple of years. I won many prizes over the years for my art. I provide original canvas work, wall murals, prints, graphic designing, face painting or pretty much anything that a buyer request. I also entered the NY Chelsea Art Competition and have an upcoming auction in my sister’s wedding.

What sets me apart from other artists is that I paint from the heart. My art allows a safe space with the mind-body-soul healing connection.

I am most proud of my open-mindedness. Art is subjective. I’m NOT sensitive about my shit and I don’t give a fuck if anyone doesn’t resignate with my work. My artwork is not for everybody, and I’m ok with that.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

I sold my first canvas art February 2017 as a Mardi Gras vendor. The buyer paid $30 for an 8×11” canvas. I felt great as this was my first sale. I had an adrenaline rush and overall addicted feeling of knowing that I wanted to sale more of my work. Over the years I have painted numerous pieces ranging from modern to contemporary. I have kept some for myself and have sold a few; primarily at pop up shops and vendor fairs.

My dedication to my craft has never wavered, even when it seemed like no means to an end. My sales do not depict my talent. I continue to sketch, draw, and paint as therapy. It’s self care for me. My resilience in the face of adversity and my commitment to my art despite the lack of external validation are a testament to my enduring spirit.

I stay true to my passion and purpose, as for now, primarily inspiring my children; who are natural born artists.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

“The Art of War” by Sun Tzu, while primarily a military treatise, contains principles and insights that have inspired my philosophy.

Just as in warfare, successful art projects require careful planning and strategy. An artist must consider the concept, composition, and execution, much like a general plans a campaign. Being strategic about my materials, techniques, and presentation have greatly influence the impact of the artwork.

Sun Tzu also emphasizes the importance of being flexible and adapting to changing circumstances. I have needed to adapt my ideas and methods in response to new inspirations, challenges, or feedback. Being open to change has lead to more innovative and dynamic creations.

Sun Tzu discusses the use of deception to mislead the enemy. In my art, the use of illusion and perspective have created powerful visual effects, leading viewers to perceive depth, movement, or emotion that wasn’t explicitly expressed.

Knowing strengths and weaknesses, as well as those of the enemy, is crucial in warfare. Similarly, I have benefitted from understanding my own skills and limitations, as well as the strengths and weaknesses of different artistic styles and mediums, to effectively communicate my vision.

Efficient use of resources is vital in war to sustain an army. In art, managing my resources such as time, materials, and energy have determined the success of a projects. Knowing how to allocate these resources wisely have lead to more productive and satisfying creative processes for me.

Sun Tzu advocates for innovative tactics and avoiding predictable patterns. Similarly, I have pushed the boundaries of conventional techniques and explored new ideas often create groundbreaking and influential works. I impress myself lol.

All things considered, these tactics have ultimately lead to more impactful and successful artworks and projects.

Contact Info:

• Other: [email protected]

Image Credits

Ellicia Mitchell