Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Mahllie Beck. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Mahllie, appreciate you joining us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?
I’ve always known that I was an artist, a leader, and a business-minded individual. I loved creating, brainstorming, and making positive impacts around me. As a child, I never felt pushed to pursue art as a career; I didn’t even really want to take art classes in school because creating art was my safe space to be my most authentic, weird, goofy, and emotional self. It helped me express myself. But creativity is in all parts of my day-to-day life. Now, I wake up and paint my eyeliner on, grab a ceramic mug that my friend made, and make myself a beautiful cup of coffee. I create a stunning outfit for the day, and the creative process goes on. I find art to be everywhere and within everyone.
In college, I challenged myself to take art classes seriously. I fell in love with the different mediums, including printmaking, painting, and mixed media. I loved learning more about art history as well. But the one thing I really grasped was that I loved being surrounded by creatives. The conversations, ideas, and collaborations really inspired and motivated me.
In 2020, a few years after I graduated college and during the pandemic, I had decided to start selling my artwork to make ends meet. And it was the first time I really saw an art career might be possible for me. I had no idea what was in store.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I started my first online shop called, dirty docs co, back in 2020. The name was inspired by my dirty Doc Marten boots because I wore them hiking all of the time and most of my artwork involved nature that I saw out in the woods. I also sold vintage and second-hand clothing in my shop. Sustainability was an important mission of mine and still is. I was learning as I went, only 22 years old at the time.
By 2023, I re-branded as, Mahllie, the Artist. It felt right. My artwork’s style evolved into more diary-like work. I would paint pieces that had a lot of vulnerability and complexity. I was putting all of my personal struggles on display, and it was considered more fine art rather than commercial artwork. People are connected with the art in a different way than before. I think my mission for the re-brand switched a bit: I wanted to create representation for folks like me who felt alone, misunderstood, or experienced heartbreak one way or another.
Honestly, I’m proud of myself. I can’t even recall how many pop-up markets I’ve participated in, I believe I did 12 group art shows in the last 4 years, and 2 solo shows. I’ve painted multiple murals for businesses. I sadly have no idea how many paintings I’ve created or sold over the years because it just happened so fast, if I could go back I would tell myself to photograph EVERYTHING.
The funny thing is that I think I’m ready to pivot again (giggle).
How did you build your audience on social media?
I don’t spend a lot of my energy on social media which might be a shock to hear. I actually find that my following grew faster when I was constantly doing in-person pop-up markets. I would hand out my business cards or let people know they could follow me on Instagram. I think we are all a bit exhausted from social media to be honest, and you know a more sustainable way to find regular customers? Create real relationships with people in the community, business owners, and reach out to people. It’s more fulfilling connecting off screen, and then using social media as a tool to communicate further.
Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative?
Being supportive is free. Being kind is free. You don’t have to like what someone makes, but you can still share it with someone who might. You may not have the money to buy an original painting, but you could buy the art print or give the artist a compliment instead. It’s small acts of kindness that really help artists feel safe to be themselves and express themselves fully.
Artists are sensitive. That’s what makes art relatable, complex, and magical.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Mahllie.com
- Instagram: @mahllie
Image Credits
Photo credits: Steven Albro Carter Luna