We recently connected with Nina and have shared our conversation below.

Nina , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?

Reflecting on my journey as a creative entrepreneur, my first experience earning from my passion was both unexpected and transformative. At 18, a childhood friend inquired if I offered face painting services for parties. Despite never having done it before, I confidently said yes, seizing the opportunity. That initial leap into the unknown not only marked the beginning of my professional path but also ignited a passion that has propelled me forward ever since.

Nina , 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?

Hello! I’m Nina, the founder of Stolen Art International, based in Chicago. My journey into the creative arts began at 18 when a childhood friend asked if I could provide face painting for a party. Despite having no prior experience, I embraced the opportunity, and that event ignited my passion for bringing art to life.

At Stolen Art International, we specialize in face painting and balloon art, adding vibrant and imaginative elements to various events. Our services are tailored for:
• Children’s Parties: Transforming young faces into their favorite characters or imaginative designs.
• Corporate Events: Offering unique entertainment that appeals to all ages.
• Community Festivals: Enhancing public gatherings with interactive and artistic experiences.

In addition to event services, I teach art at elementary schools throughout Chicago, nurturing creativity in young minds and fostering a love for artistic expression.

What sets us apart is our commitment to creativity and personalization. We work closely with clients to ensure our art aligns with their event themes and exceeds expectations. Our goal is to create memorable experiences that leave a lasting impression.

I’m particularly proud of the positive feedback we’ve received from clients who appreciate our dedication to quality and creativity. Seeing the joy and excitement on participants’ faces is the most rewarding aspect of our work.

For those considering our services, know that at Stolen Art International, we prioritize professionalism, hygiene, and artistic excellence. We’re passionate about bringing a touch of magic to your events and look forward to the opportunity to collaborate with you.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about us. We hope to bring our artistic flair to your next event!

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Building my social media audience has been an organic journey. I started by sharing photos and videos of my face painting and balloon art, aiming to showcase my work authentically. Engaging with followers by responding to comments and messages helped build a sense of community. Collaborating with local events and tagging relevant organizations expanded my reach. Consistency was key; regular posts kept my audience informed and engaged.

For those starting out, I’d suggest focusing on understanding your audience and sharing content that resonates with them. Be genuine in your interactions, and don’t be afraid to experiment to see what works best. Building a social media presence takes time, so be patient and stay true to your passion.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Supporting artists and fostering a vibrant creative community involves several key actions:
• Government Support: Implementing policies that provide financial incentives can significantly bolster the arts. For instance, France’s Aillagon law offers a 60% tax relief on corporate donations to arts and charities, which has substantially increased cultural funding. 
• Community Engagement: Organizing events like art walks, live demonstrations, and workshops can actively involve the community in the local arts scene. These activities not only showcase artists’ work but also foster a deeper appreciation for the arts within the community. 
• Educational Opportunities: Providing platforms for artists to share their knowledge through teaching workshops or writing tutorials can strengthen community bonds and establish artists as valuable members of society. This exchange of skills enriches both the artists and the participants, contributing to a more vibrant creative community. 
• Individual Support: Individuals can contribute by attending local exhibitions, purchasing artwork from regional artists, and commissioning pieces. These actions have a direct impact on the financial well-being of artists and stimulate economic growth within the community. 

By combining supportive policies, community initiatives, educational opportunities, and individual actions, society can create an environment where artists and creativity flourish.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @stolenartco