We recently connected with Phalecia Young and have shared our conversation below.

Phalecia , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

Am I happy as an artist? Most days. Just like everyone else, I have days where I’m frustrated, sad or indifferent. Feeling those emotions helps me to create art. Art is therapeutic. Whatever I’m feeling can be expressed by the stroke of a brush, the colors in my palette and each line that I draw on canvas.
Do I wonder what it would be like to have a regular job?. Absolutely not. I have degrees in human services and a master’s in alternative medicine. I worked in those fields for many years before deciding to become a full time artist. Although I appreciate how that experience helped me to become who I am, I couldn’t see myself going back to working a 9 to 5. I love the freedom that I have as an artist.

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.

Growing up, I was always different. My brothers would tell you that if everybody else was doing it, I was doing the opposite. I have always been creative. It should have come as no surprise to those who knew me when I decided to pursue art full-time. I put a little bit of myself into every piece of art that I create. In this way, I feel so I’m sharing myself with the world. I see a world filled with beauty, happiness, sadness and lots of color. So that’s what I put on the canvas. It makes me happy when someone can look at one of my paintings and tell exactly what I was feeling when I painted it.

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

I don’t think that we as a society realize the the importance of art and creativity. Art provides a means for us to connect with our feelings and with one another. I have witnessed firsthand in my community how art can foster empathy and understanding among people. We need more art programs in schools because art and creativity enhances cognitive development and critical thinking.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I want to continue to grow as an artist. I want to travel the world, using my experiences to create beautiful artwork.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @ltgartwork