We had the good fortune of connecting with Stephanie Keita and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Stephanie, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I’d have to say other artists past and present. The inspiration out there is astounding. The support from family, friends, and art appreciators are big factors, too. I wouldn’t be where am I without them. My mom always encouraged me to be my full, authentic self without the pressure to be something I’m not. Hard to choose between the two of what takes precedence. They’re both key factors to my “success”.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I can honestly say art has proven to be a beautiful transition from a childhood pastime to a full-blown outlet of intense therapy. I have had a passion for it the minute I picked up a crayon. Always packing a pencil and paper, always asking for art supplies, always looking for the next thing to draw that screamed to my imagination. During a parent/teacher conference, my first-grade teacher, Mrs. Cotton, praised my drawings and said they always stood out from all the rest. That really stuck with me. Later in my school career, the challenges early on were what just about every artist may face: lack of self-esteem. I would get frustrated quickly if I couldn’t convey on paper what was swirling in my brain. I try to hold much more patience and self-forgiveness now.
I had a lull for several years where I stopped creating completely. I’m so relieved it didn’t last. I’m now at a place in my art career where I can say I’m an artist without feeling like a wannabe. My passion for it has catapulted, and now I can’t imagine my life without it. It’s one of my greatest sources of decompressing.
I have learned that my art is not for everyone, and I’m happily okay with that.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Oh, yes. I could write a list of names and titles, but I will keep it short and sweet. My parents are big, big when it comes to this. They never-ever tried to steer me down a path I wasn’t comfortable with. Alos, my amazing friends who are at the core of my support “out on the field”, whether it be at markets I’m vending, sharing my pieces on all the media of the socials, or geeking over whatever strange ideas I have to paint next. I’m forever indebted to them.

Instagram: stephyjann_art

Linkedin: Stephanie Keita

Facebook: Stephanie Jann (Stephanie Raver)

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