Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Bianca Lewis. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Bianca, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
Because of work (both art and my 9-5) I find myself in a lot of scenarios where I am the “only one in the room”. I somewhat welcome this scenario, but I had to learn to do so. Being the only or one of the few black people in a room gives us an advantage in some ways, which I learned during my time as a student at Samford University. Being the only or one of a few black people in an environment automatically puts a spotlight on us. It’s our chance to be the most seen and heard, in a positive way. I’ve learned to govern myself accordingly but genuinely. In other words, I’m not turning off my black, but I’m definitely representing US well when I find myself being the “only one in the room”.
For example, since I am a local artist, I participate in local art events whenever my time permits. I haven’t been to one local event where majority of the vendors were black. I’ve always been 1 of 2 or 3 black vendors at an event at a time. My rule of thumb is to talk about what I know about and ask questions about what I don’t, following questions with conversation. This rule has been a great ice breaker for me. I’ve learned a lot and have created great art relationships of all different backgrounds along the way.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
In addition to artist, I hold a few titles that I’m very proud of; mother of 2, daughter, oldest sibling, friend to a few, etc. I’ve been a lover of art for many years… have loved creating since I was a little girl. Artist of BLew Artisty came about in 2016. A friend believed in my gift more than me. He pushed me to pursue my business, bought my first personalized piece and supported my vision until he left this earth, His art request brought something out of me I didn’t know I had. Since then, I’ve been challenging my artistic talent… pushing my limits… playing with and perfecting different mediums. And I’m nowhere near done.
Now, BLew Artistry is known for personalized art pieces. Some of my favorite requests are murals, portraits, art parties, and freestyle art. In my free time, I create pieces that are available for purchase which can be found on my website at b7ewartistry.com .
Readers, if you have an artistic vision, give it to me and let me bring it to life. There’s no request too little or too big. They all get the same love and effort from me.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
One of my most fond memories related to art is one of the courses I took during my undergraduate years at Samford University. Picture this! Early morning traffic commuting to school… rushing to grab breakfast… battling to find a parking spot… walking a few miles to class… and finally arriving. Whew! I was tired by the time I made it. But the class was so rejuvenating.
I’d walk in, put on a smock and head to my station to begin painting. It was my first painting class and my professor was so knowledgeable. This is where I learned and found my love for the canvas and paint.
My painting class’ assignments reminded me that art isn’t just beautiful. Art is a peak into the artist’s mind; it’s a chance to be heard without saying a word. Not only that but it requires dedication to the craft. As I mentioned previously, I’m nowhere near done. Keep learning about what you love, readers.
In addition to dedication, I think consistency and networking are important for development. After you’ve found your passion, find a circle of likeminded and experienced individuals that are willing to coach. Thereafter, consistently pursue your dream. Take a breather if need be, but always come back harder… ready to work for what you love.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
I’m most definitely wanting to partner with some creatives, and I’ve been peeping the scene. I have so many ideas to promote business for us all and even give back to our community. I’d love to work with artists that offer diverse styles of artistry. If anyone is interested in sharing ideas and organizing events, please reach out. My socials are below:
| https://www.facebook.com/BLewArtistry/
| https://www.instagram.com/b7ew.artistry/
| http://www.b7ewartistry.com/
Can’t wait!!
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.b7ewartistry.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/b7ew.artistry/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BLewArtistry/
