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

Kim, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

In our work with domestic violence victims, the mindfulness journey through the arts has proven to be profoundly impactful. Engaging in artistic expression within a mindful framework has provided these resilient women with a powerful coping tool. The creative process allows them a non-verbal outlet to process emotions, fostering a sense of empowerment and self-discovery. Mindfulness, integrated into our sessions, plays a key role in helping participants stay present in the moment, promoting emotional regulation and reducing anxiety. Through this holistic approach, we witness firsthand the transformative power of art and mindfulness in empowering survivors on their path to healing and resilience.

This mindfulness journey through the arts, particularly in our work with domestic violence victims, is a deeply meaningful project for our company. It aligns with our core values of empathy and social responsibility, emphasizing the importance of holistic well-being. Witnessing the positive impact on the lives of these women, as art becomes a healing mechanism and mindfulness a pathway to resilience, reinforces our commitment to initiatives that make a tangible difference. It underscores the belief that every individual, irrespective of their circumstances, deserves avenues for self-expression and healing. This project not only embodies our commitment to corporate social responsibility but also showcases the transformative potential of mindful artistic engagement in fostering positive change within our communities.I

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 Native of New Orleans, LA. Growing up in the Garden District gave me access to a diverse world of art early in life that I took for granted. Art for me was always a part of my life whether it was music, dance, photography, or painting it was easily available and the norm. My journey in the Arts started off with dancing. I did ballet, tap, jazz, I even danced with an African dance Troupe. I danced my entire life even through College. The parades we marched had some of the most magnificent pieces of arts created and we experienced them all of the time.

For me, I have always been a creative spirit. I received the Key to the City for writing a poem to our Mayor. It was from Shakespeare’s Julius Ceasar but I changed the words to honor the Mayor. This was not for a contest or anything, I just woke up and felt creative so I created. Being a Girl Scout growing up and then becoming a Leader for 10 years our motto is to leave a place better than you found it. I like to apply this to each of my customer’s experiences when they experience any service or product with Creole Creative Canvases.

I found once I left New Orleans Art was not always as accessible and you had to be intentional to be in the community. Although I left my community the creativity was still in me and I was still creating. I have always enjoyed entertaining and hosting parties. Many would say my parties were awesome because of all the thought and creativity put into them. I realized it was time for me to make sure that others have the same accessibility to the Arts I had growing up. Hence, the birth of Creole Creative Canvases.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Certainly! Starting Creole Creative Canvases in January 2020 was an exciting venture, but as we all know, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought unexpected challenges. Adapting to the new reality, I made the strategic decision to pivot the business to an online model. Fortunately, I had already been providing services to homeschoolers, and leveraging that existing model proved invaluable. Going completely virtual allowed us to continue delivering our mindful artistic experiences seamlessly, ensuring that participants could still access the transformative power of art and mindfulness from the safety of their homes. This pivot not only sustained the business during uncertain times but also expanded our reach, creating an even more accessible and inclusive space for those seeking healing and empowerment through creativity.

In addition to transitioning to a fully virtual model, the challenges presented by the pandemic also became an opportunity for innovation. Recognizing the evolving needs of our consumers, we took a bold step and introduced a subscription box service and a range of online products. This pivot allowed us to bring the joy of mindful artistic expression directly to our community’s doorstep. Now, our clients can enjoy the transformative experience of Creole Creative Canvases from the comfort of their homes through carefully curated subscription boxes and digital offerings. This shift not only ensured the continuity of our services but also opened up new avenues for engaging with our audience in meaningful ways.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Supporting artists, creatives, and fostering a thriving creative ecosystem requires a multi-faceted approach that acknowledges the diverse needs and challenges within the community. Here are some key ways that society can best support artists and contribute to a flourishing creative environment:

Financial Support:

Provide grants, fellowships, and financial aid programs for artists. This helps alleviate financial pressures, allowing them to focus on their craft without the constant worry about basic needs.
Accessible Spaces and Resources:

Create affordable and accessible spaces for artists to work and collaborate. This includes affordable studio spaces, exhibition venues, and access to tools and materials.
Education and Training:

Invest in arts education at all levels to nurture the next generation of artists. Offer training programs and workshops to help artists develop their skills and navigate the business side of the creative industry.
Promotion and Exposure:

Support initiatives that promote and showcase the work of artists. This includes public art installations, galleries, and online platforms. Encourage partnerships between artists and businesses to integrate art into public spaces.
Cultural Institutions and Programs:

Strengthen and fund cultural institutions such as museums, galleries, and theaters. Support public art initiatives and community-based cultural programs that bring art to a wider audience.
Fair Compensation and Recognition:

Advocate for fair compensation for artists’ work. Recognize the value of creativity and ensure that artists are compensated appropriately for their contributions to society.
Mental Health Support:

Acknowledge and address the mental health challenges that artists often face. Provide resources and support networks to help artists navigate the emotional aspects of their work.
Diversity and Inclusion:

Encourage diversity and inclusion within the creative industry. Ensure that opportunities are accessible to artists from all backgrounds and communities, fostering a richer and more representative creative ecosystem.
Networking and Collaboration:

Facilitate networking opportunities and encourage collaboration between artists and other sectors. Cross-industry collaborations can bring fresh perspectives and open up new avenues for creative expression.
Policy Advocacy:

Advocate for policies that protect and support artists, including fair copyright laws, affordable healthcare options, and regulations that promote the growth of the creative economy.
By addressing these aspects, society can create an environment where artists and creatives can thrive, contribute meaningfully, and enrich the cultural fabric of our communities.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.creolecreativecanvases.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creole_creative_canvases/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CreoleCreativeCanvases
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/74771724/admin/feed/posts/