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We are pleased to spotlight Shakiyla our November Featured Artist
When did you begin your career as an artist?
Shy J: I’ve always been an Artist but I would say that my official career as an Artist began two years ago when I started actively showcasing my paintings and Intaglio Prints.
Where do you get the inspiration for your work?
Shy J: All my inspiration I get from everything I see, TV, social media, books and everything around me and how it makes me feel.
What makes you want to be an artist?
Shy J: I can’t really say. I’ve always wanted to be an artist since I was very little.
For you how does art relate to wellness?
Shy J: For me Art helps me get out all my emotions. Whether I’m worried or hurt. I can just sit and paint for hours and when I’m done I’m so relaxed.
How do you stay healthy as a creative?
Shy J: I exercise. Do yoga. Take long walks around my neighborhood and currently I’m re-learning to roller skate.
What do you feel is the most challenging aspect of your career.
Shy J: Trying not to compare myself to other Artist. Its especially hard when Art is so accessible now and likes are just as satisfying.
When you aren’t painting/drawing/photographing what are you doing?
Shy J: Playing The Sims or watching movies.
What is it that inspires you to keep going as professional artists?
Shy J: My family. My siblings, they’ve got so much drive when it comes to what they love that it gives me the energy to keep going. Like they’re amazing and I want to be that Amazing big sister.
What are you working on now?
Shy J: Nothing right now but I’ve got some ideas for hands and beetles.
What’s has been your best experience so far as an artist?
Shy J: Being at a event I was helping vendor at and a woman saying “hey you did that painting” then she shows me her phone it’s one of my paintings at a gallery corner I did as her lock screen.
What has been your biggest challenge as an artist? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?
shy J: My biggest challenge is not getting in my feelings about whether I’m as good as other artist and painting on a bigger scale. I have to layer paints and step back a lot to make sure it’s not looking crazy.
What advice do you have for others interested in pursuing as career in art?
Shy J: As long as you have the drive and determination do it. But remember it’s okay to take a little job to keep everything going. You have to pay for your paints. And don’t let the job hinder your creativity.
Is there anything else you’d like the readers to know?
Shy J: Just thank you for viewing my work and I hope it makes you think.
mailing address P.O. BOX 10011, Rochester, NY 14610 • info540westmain@gmail.com