Meet Lakisha Bradley

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Sed ut perspiciatis unde.

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Lakisha Bradley. Lakisha was introduced to us by the brilliant and talented Shay Holloway.

Lakisha, can you walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
Absolutely! My journey is one that intertwines art, healing, and community. It all began in Lewisville, Arkansas, where I grew up surrounded by creativity and service. My father was a self-taught artist (who worked at Celtic Farm and Timber) , and my mother was a servant leader (School Cafeteria Manager) in our community. From an early age, I was exposed to the power of art and the importance of giving back.

Art was always a part of my life. I was active in art, sports, and band at Lewisville Red Devils High School, and I graduated in 1996. However, as life took its course, I found myself in a 16-year career at Walmart Corporate. Although I was successful, I felt something was missing. I realized that I had drifted away from my passion for art and the deep sense of fulfillment it brought me.

In 2016, I took a leap of faith and in 2017 founded MY-T-BY-DESIGN Therapeutic Art Studios. The inspiration for this move came from my own healing journey. I began to paint again, and it became a therapeutic outlet for me. I saw the transformative power of art not only in my life but in the lives of those around me. I knew I had to share this gift with others.

MY-T-BY-DESIGN’s mission is to use art as a gateway to holistic healing, providing a unique space where artistic activities are combined with access to licensed counseling. We serve a diverse range of communities, including youth within the juvenile justice system, corporate employees, seniors in assisted living facilities, and more. Over the years, we’ve reached over 20,000 individuals, helping them find their voice and heal through art.

In addition to running MY-T-BY-DESIGN, I’m also the Arts, Culture, and Wellness Liaison at Ozark Regional Transit, and I’m currently pursuing a counseling graduate degree at John Brown University. I’ve been blessed to collaborate with major organizations like Crystal Bridges American Art Museum, Walmart, Tyson Foods, and Delta Airlines, and I’ve received several awards for my community service and entrepreneurial efforts.

Throughout my journey, I’ve remained committed to the belief that everyone is a masterpiece in the making. My goal is to ensure that art and healing are accessible to all, especially in underserved communities. Through MY-T-BY-DESIGN, I continue to advocate for mental wellness, using art as a powerful tool for transformation and growth.

This journey has been full of challenges and triumphs, but I wouldn’t change a thing. Every step has led me to where I am today, and I’m excited to see where it will take me next.

Please talk to us about your creative work and career. What should we know?
My art and creative work are deeply rooted in the belief that art is a powerful tool for healing and transformation. As a Social Practice Artist and Certified Therapeutic Art Practitioner, I focus on creating spaces where people can explore their emotions, experiences, and identities through art. My work is not just about creating beautiful pieces but about fostering a sense of self-worth, connection, and community. One of the key aspects of my work is the use of therapeutic art interventions. I design activities and workshops that encourage participants to express themselves in a safe, judgment-free environment. For instance, my ‘Healing Into The Canvas’activity allows individuals to assign colors to their emotions, helping them visualize and process their feelings in a unique and meaningful way. It’s been a transformative experience for many, and I’m honored to facilitate that process. In my career, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with a wide range of organizations, from schools and universities to corporations and public transit systems. MY-T-BY-DESIGN Therapeutic Art Studios, the studio I founded, has allowed me to reach over 20,000 individuals, sharing the healing power of art with diverse groups, including youth in juvenile detention centers and seniors in assisted living facilities. My work also extends to public and community art. I’ve been involved in curating and promoting local artists’ work, bringing attention to the incredible talent within our communities. Last year, I highlighted 17 local artists through a mobile art gallery with Ozark Regional Transit, giving them a platform to showcase their creativity. For those interested in exploring my work further, you can check out MY-T-BY-DESIGN Therapeutic Art Studios at www.mytbydesign.com. We have an active presence on social media where we share our latest projects, workshops, and events. You can follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay updated and get a glimpse into our creative processes. @mytbydesign I also invite you to visit our studio in person if you’re in the area (392 E. Sunbridge Dr. Fayetteville, AR 72703). We regularly host workshops and community events where you can experience the healing power of art firsthand. Whether you’re an artist, a creative spirit, or someone looking to explore new ways to connect with yourself and others, there’s something at MY-T-BY-DESIGN for everyone. Thank you for your interest in my work. I hope it inspires you to see art not just as a form of expression but as a path to healing and growth.

Shay Holloway has been a great friend to us and I know you’ve got a great relationship as well. Maybe you can tell our audience a bit about Shay and your experience with them.
I’m thrilled to share my experience working with Shay, an incredibly talented and dedicated artist who has left a lasting impact on our community. I first met Shay several years ago through a mutual community partner. We were out serving the community, and Shay was there to help capture the moment through her photography. What struck me immediately was her unique ability to capture not just images, but the very essence of people’s hearts in action. Her photographs didn’t just show what was happening; they conveyed the emotions, the connections, and the spirit of the moment.

Since that first encounter, I’ve had the privilege of working with Shay on numerous occasions, and my admiration for her work has only grown. Shay is not just a photographer; she’s a storyteller. Her approach to art is deeply rooted in authenticity and creativity. Whether she’s behind the camera or in front of a canvas, Shay brings a sense of depth and emotion to her work that is truly inspiring.

Shay’s dedication to her craft is evident in every project she undertakes. She doesn’t just create art; she pours her heart and soul into it. This dedication is what makes her work stand out and why I’ve chosen to collaborate with her time and time again. Her paintings, much like her photography, are rich in emotion and meaning. They reflect not only her talent but her deep connection to the subjects she portrays.

I’m incredibly proud of the work Shay does and the positive impact she has on our community. She’s more than just an artist; she’s a force for good, using her talents to uplift and inspire those around her. If you’re looking for an artist who can capture the heart of a moment or the soul of a subject, Shay is the one to turn to. You can check out her amazing work on social media at @artgirlshay and see for yourself the incredible artistry she brings to every piece she creates.