Today we’d like to introduce you to Kenya Mitchell.
Hi Kenya, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself
Ever since I can remember, I was an artist. Always making or drawing something. My brother and uncle were the creatives. I aspired to be just as talented as they were. Growing up, in the Darst Webbe/Clinton Peabody Projects, I didn’t see many artists. Let alone, seeing it as a real career option. In high school, you couldn’t stop me from drawing. I drew everywhere; I got in trouble for it plenty of times for disrupting the classroom lol.
During that time, I was told about a summer arts program called ArtWorks. It was the first time I felt that I could be an artist while making money. Initially, I wanted to study art in college. However, my dream was deferred due to the passing of my grandmother, Berenice Sanders. I eventually enrolled in the Art Program at Saint Louis Community College- Forest Park. With the help and encouragement of my husband, my dream became a reality.
My instructors helped me cultivate my raw talent, providing me with their mentorship along with extra studio time. Additionally, I was invited to a summer internship at Living Arts Studio in Maplewood, Missouri. My experience there ignited my passion for helping people. Soon after, I graduated in 2018 with my Associate’s Degree in Fine Arts.
I’m currently applying to colleges to pursue my bachelor’s degree. I’m looking for a program that will allow me to financially support myself while creating and learning amongst innovative artists. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at STLCC and hope that a four-year university gives me the same inspiration and tutelage. I currently work as an Early Childhood Teachers Assistant, hoping to encourage their artistic flare. Over the last couple of years, my work has been showcased through multiple venues.
I’ve been a featured artist at the Angad Arts Hotel in their “Black Non-Peril Exhibition,” The Wall Ball with ArtScope, and the Division of Hospital Medicine at Washington University in St. Louis – School of Medicine. I also produce commission pieces and work as a Facepainter. I aspire to be a full-time artist with my own art studio.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It has not been a smooth road, but it has been a rewarding road. It has definitely been difficult at times to find balance in creating, working, being a wife and dog mom. All the while trying to squeeze in a little time for myself. There were many times I doubted my skills as an artist. The lack of sales and networking opportunities left me feeling hopeless. The pandemic hit hard but I, along with the rest of the world, needed a reset.
Although it was a struggle, it helped me recognize my worth and the impact art had on people. I slowly got out of my shell and met some great people. These people have been instrumental in my growth. Improving my social/networking, marketing, skills allowed my work to be seen, while also booking more jobs.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
So, I am a multimedia visual artist. I don’t limit myself to just one medium, I love different styles of art. Traditional painting, drawing, digital, and fluid art consumes a lot of my time, lol. I mostly paint portraits (watercolor and acrylic), abstract, contemporary, digital Illustrations, and face painting.
I am dabbling into cosplay/special effects makeup and I would love to create a mural. I believe I am known for creating thought-provoking pieces that have emotion and color. I am most proud of how far I’ve come. I believe I’m able to transfer my spirit to the canvas. Being able to relay pain, joy, fear, strength, and faith is what sets me apart.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
I’ve learned the importance of rest, self-care, and connection. Take every moment you have doing what you love and share it with others. Life is freeing if you live it genuinely. Work daily to better yourself and your craft. Ultimately, I realize that there is no better time than now to go after what is destined for me.
Pricing:
- Custom Painting/Drawings $100+
- Digital Illustrations $75+
- Face Painting: $75 1hr, $100 2hrs, $150 3hrs, $200 4hrs.
- Custom Face Paint Themed Designs $150+
- Custom Face Paint Themed Designs $150+
- SFX Face/Body Painting $75hr
- Art/Paint Parties ranging from $15-$20pp (Kids) & $30-$35pp (Adults)
Contact Info:
- Email: Bykenyamitchell@gmail.com
- Website: https://pure-artistry-by-kenya-mitchell.myshopify.com https://kenyam90.wixsite.com/pure-artistry (Both are currently under construction)
- Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/pure_artistry_by_kenyamitchell/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/KenyaMitchell23/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@kenyamitchell_art
Image Credits
Kaylee Reagan and Torrie Danielle
