We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Machée Kelly. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Machée below.

Machée, appreciate you joining us today. What’s something you believe that most people in your industry (or in general) disagree with?

The myth of the “starving artist” suggests that pursuing a career in art is financially risky and generally unwise. However, this narrative overlooks the many ways in which artists can actually thrive and find financial success. In reality, being an artist can be lucrative through various avenues such as selling original artwork, licensing designs, teaching workshops, placing art on home goods and stationery, and even collaborating with brands. With the rise of social media and online platforms, artists can reach a larger audience and sell their work directly to individuals. Today many people appreciate original art, unique works, and being able to support artists in various mediums.

In my personal experience, supporters have embraced my brand for its lifestyle items featuring my original art. Art is more accessible today, which contributes to the potential for a successful career as an artist. I believe that by dispelling the myth of the starving artist and acknowledging the diverse opportunities, artists can achieve success and prosperity in their creative pursuits.

Machée, 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 Machée Kelly, an artist based in Washington DC, and I am the creative force behind Machée Creates, a vibrant brand celebrating Black culture through graphic art and bold colors. My collection highlights the transformative power of color to evoke joy.

Through Machée Creates, I fill a void in culturally relevant lifestyle items with original art illustrations, stationery, and gifts. My vision combines my love for graphic art with color science, aiming to enhance individuals’ mental and emotional well-being through artistic expression.

A key focus for Machée Creates is providing products that represent women of color, often overlooked in mainstream retail. My products aim to give these women a voice in the marketplace. I also stand out by prioritizing color psychology in product design and branding, using colors that evoke joy and positive emotions.

A significant milestone for Machée Creates is being featured in the Museum Store at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC). This achievement is particularly meaningful for me as a Black woman, DC native, and creative entrepreneur, as it signifies recognition in a space rich with history and culture.

Machée Creates’ products are expanding across the U.S., reaching bookstores, gift shops, and stationery stores. My goal is to mobilize the use of artistic expression and improve individuals’ mental and emotional well-being through vibrant art and lifestyle items.

How did you build your audience on social media?

Social media has been a significant tool for marketing, engagement, and building the supporter base for Machée Creates. It was the first place where I began selling products directly to consumers. As the Founder & CEO, I highly recommend utilizing social media to build a small business, particularly for product-based businesses.

To build an audience on social media, it’s important to engage with individuals through polls and questionnaires, as this encourages interaction and shows that you value their opinions. Posting tips for other small business owners can establish you as an authority in your field and attract like-minded followers. Creating relatable and encouraging content helps to connect with your audience on a personal level.

Using brand colors consistently on social media helps to showcase your brand identity and create a cohesive feed that is visually appealing. Responding directly to comments shows that you are attentive to your audience and value their feedback. Machée Creates is known for vibrant and colorful content on social media.

Posting frequently on social media keeps your audience engaged and interested in your content. Sharing behind-the-scenes work and processes gives your audience a glimpse into your creative process and helps to humanize your brand. I have found this to be an extremely valuable practice.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively build an audience on social media and establish a strong presence for your brand. The most important thing is to be authentic!

Do you have multiple revenue streams – if so, can you talk to us about those streams and how your developed them?

Currently, Machée Creates sells products directly on our website, www.macheecreates.com, as well as through wholesale and retail stores. We also sell directly to consumers at markets and events, license artwork, and occasionally take on commissioned work. I recommend diversifying revenue streams for small business owners.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.macheecreates.com
• Instagram: @macheecreates
• Facebook: Machée Creates

Image Credits
Photographer: Robert Stewart, NMAAHC Photographer: Oshaine South, Shot By Shaine Photography