Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kenya Mitchell. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Kenya, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Alright, so one thing we think people don’t talk about nearly enough is investments – either time or money. What’s one of the best or worst investments you’ve made and what did you learned from the experience?
The best investments I’ve made as a business owner?! 1. Going out on Faith (Believing in myself ; Before this I was a pre-K T.A with an awesome team. One day I decided to leave to go back to school and expand my business)
2.Establishing Connections/Networking (Getting out of my shell, meeting new people, volunteer etc. You never know who’s watching; someone may been searching for a person like you)
3.Legally registering my business as an LLC. (Still bossing up to more levels; it’s expensive but worth doing it right.)
4. Going back to School (Besides getting a degree, I wanted to nourish my creativity by learning new skills. I’m currently attending Webster & loving it!)
5. Taking care of yourself. (You’ve heard the saying” The customers always right” – well I say “never comprise your integrity to people please”. If it doesn’t morally Align or is outside of what you can do; think about it first – don’t rush to a decision because you feel pressured. Also, If you’re having a hard day, take a break – mental health reset is always good. You can’t be the best you if you’re running on fumes.)
Kenya, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am STL native visual artist, becoming known for creating thought-provoking pieces that have emotion and color. I believe I’m able to transfer my spirit through to multiple mediums. Being able to relay pain, joy, fear, strength and faith is what sets me apart. I draw most of my inspiration from real life experiences. My journey as an artist/person is ever changing; I am a constant student & motivator.
Ever since I can remember, I was an artist. Always making or drawing something. My brother and uncle were the creatives. I aspired to be just as talented as they were. Growing up, in the Darst Webbe/Clinton Peabody Projects, I didn’t see many artists. Let alone, seeing it as a real career option.
It wasn’t until I was exposed to different programs (like Artworks STL) that I could do this as a living.
Life happens and I wanted to be realistic about job choices but I kept choosing art. I enrolled into art school with encouragement from my husband. What was once a hobby/dream became: LIFE.
Pure Artistry By. Kenya Mitchell started and little by little my business and skills got better. Supporters and clients, consistently appreciating/bookings gave me the boost I needed for the next levels.
I am mostly proud of my growth! In art and life. I’ve had my artwork featured in galleries, hotel, hospital, cardinals game.
I am always proud of my commissioned works. And the work I’m doing currently as a student. I know that this is just the beginning. I cannot take all the glory because that goes to GOD.
I offer drawings, paintings, digital illustrations, face/body painting, art parties etc.
We’d love to hear about how you keep in touch with clients.
Good Question! I like to establish open communication but with boundaries with my clients. You can call, text, dm; if I’m available I’ll respond if it’s at a reasonable hour.
I like to check in:
Asking, if they would like more services(for instance: if they booked face paintings previously).
Reviews & Referrals (would they post a review and tag me & my business name)
Kind Words, Genuinely ask them how they are doing.
That helps establish connections that can lead to brand loyalty.
Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?
Artist Books
“Be The Artist” By. Thomas “Detour” Evans
“The Artist Way” By. JULIA CAMERON
“Artrepreneur: Making your Dream a Business” By. STINA ALEAH
YouTube, LinkedIn Learning , Signing up For Workshops. Mentoring and being Mentored.
Paying attention to what works & what doesn’t work marketing wise,etc.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pure_artistry_by_kenyamitchell/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/KenyaMitchell23/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenya-mitchell-ab175a17a
- Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/bykenyamitchell
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenyamitchell_art https://linktr.ee/KenyaM90
Image Credits
Photo: @Kaylee Reagan @Chasatie Jordan Model:@asockielatte @oneandonlytorrie