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

Shelbi, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

Fueled by creative determination, I’ve forged a full-time living through my artistic endeavors. Acknowledging the constraints of adhering to conventional job markets, I ventured into entrepreneurship in 2010. Over the past thirteen years, my journey has been marked by continuous evolution, building a reputation for reliability and creative support. As a businesswoman and a creative force, I stand with pride, shaping projects that hold both creative significance and contribute meaningfully to the world around me. My own LLC provides the platform to expand services, seize opportunities, and constantly challenge myself creatively, creating a harmonious blend of community, art, and a purposeful impact.

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.

I am Shelbi “Shel10” Toone, a creative professional who takes immense pride in crafting work that not only carries creative significance but also makes meaningful contributions to the community and beyond. My creative journey began over a decade ago, driven by the recognition of limitations within traditional job markets. Operating through my own LLC, I have offered a diverse range of services and seized numerous creative opportunities. This includes creative business consulting, the crafting of impactful brands, and engagement in various contract consulting across diverse industries. Concurrently, I engage actively as a muralist, curator, and facilitator of art access through various avenues.

I like to think what sets me apart is my proven commitment to continuous evolution and the ongoing refinement of my skills as a professional creator. I seize opportunities to be in rooms where creatives like me are not typically found. I thrive on approaching challenges with a creative perspective, considering each new opportunity as a canvas to make meaningful contributions. My business serves as a guiding force for my artist brand, providing the means to broaden services, seize new opportunities, and consistently push my artistic boundaries. As a professional valuing innovation, reliability, and meaningful impact, I am grateful for the transformative journey that has shaped me. I hope to convey that my brand is a fusion of love, passion, artistry, and a dedicated commitment to making a positive difference.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of my career as a creative professional is contributing to the cultural richness of my city, connecting with diverse communities, and bridging gaps. This involves forming meaningful connections, fostering a shared sense of identity, and leaving a lasting impact on the artistic landscape. The joy of expressing my unique perspective, amplified by the collaborative support from my diverse community, individuals, and organizations, brings depth and significance to my creative journey. Rooted in the legacy and history of my ancestors, I see this journey as a testament to heritage. Most importantly, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to influence, inspire, support, and shape the broader cultural narrative through art—a profoundly gratifying and rewarding journey.

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

I have often thought that the most effective way for society to support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem is by undergoing a significant cultural shift. It’s crucial to reject the tendency to downplay the value artists contribute to work and culture and instead embrace the opportunities that come from celebrating the creative spirit. Let’s move away from underestimating the importance of artists and work collaboratively to build a culture that genuinely honors and uplifts creative minds.

Furthermore, advocating for increased attention and investment in arts education at all levels is vital. This is why I continue my work with OAAE (oaae.net), advocating that children and their emerging talents have the resources and opportunities to understand their gifts. Helping youth unleash their boundless creative potential is key to shaping our future. In conclusion, recognizing the cultural and economic value that artists bring is essential for fostering a thriving and supportive creative ecosystem.

Contact Info:

• Website: shel10.com
• Instagram: creativeshel10
• Facebook: CreativeShel
• Linkedin: Shelbi Toone

Image Credits
Shelbi “Shel10” Toone Personal Photo By John Landry 2021 Shel10 Pop Up w. Art Of Republic at West Elm of Easton 2023 Photo By Rhonni Green Shel10 Pop Up of at West Elm 2023 Cincinnati Photo By Terence Toone Shel10 hosts Equity in the Arts 2023 Community Conversation at Lincoln Theatre Photo By Terry Gilliam @NewPeace2020 featured in Art Action Activism Book by Greater Columbus Art Council & Warhol on Wall St. Ohio BBQ Pig Mural for The Pitt Restaurant Clintonville est. 2021 Shel10 signature at Easton Unity Pavilion 2020 Photo By Terence Toone