We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Maryana Dokhvat. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Maryana below.
Maryana, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
Creativity, for me, is like a muscle—it thrives with consistent use and exposure to new experiences. I keep my creativity alive by constantly seeking inspiration in the world around me. Whether it’s exploring local art exhibits, taking a walk through nature, or even observing the colors and patterns in everyday life, I find that inspiration is everywhere if you look for it.
I also make time to create for myself, outside of work. This could mean experimenting with a new art medium, trying out unconventional painting techniques, or even doodling just for fun. Teaching others through Portable Picasso also keeps my creativity thriving—seeing participants approach their projects with fresh eyes often sparks new ideas for me as well.
Lastly, I believe in staying curious and open to learning. Whether it’s trying a new craft, collaborating with other artists, or taking in creative input from my community, I find that the more I engage, the more my creativity flourishes. Creativity isn’t just about making art—it’s about staying inspired and continuously challenging myself to think differently.
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?
I’m the founder of Portable Picasso, a creative business that brings the joy of art directly to people through fun and engaging painting events. Whether it’s a paint-and-sip night at a local brewery, a team-building event, or a family-friendly workshop, my goal is to create experiences that are as memorable as they are inspiring. What makes Portable Picasso truly special is its accessibility—we provide all the materials and bring the art to life in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Right now, I’m especially excited about our partnerships with local organizations, including nonprofits like the SPCA, where we host events to raise awareness and funds for meaningful causes. As we grow, we’re looking to expand our offerings, reach new communities, and continue sharing the joy of creativity with as many people as possible. Portable Picasso isn’t just about painting; it’s about connection, inspiration, and making art accessible to everyone.
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?
Looking back, three qualities have been incredibly impactful in my journey: adaptability, passion, and community-building.
Adaptability: Starting a business like Portable Picasso required me to embrace change and think on my feet. Whether it’s customizing an event for a specific audience or pivoting marketing strategies, adaptability has been key. My advice to anyone starting out is to stay open to feedback and be willing to adjust your approach as you learn. Flexibility is where growth happens.
Passion: Loving what I do fuels everything—from late nights planning events to the joy of seeing someone proudly hold up their finished painting. Passion is contagious and shows in your work. For those early in their journey, I’d say, find the “why” behind what you’re doing. When you connect deeply with your purpose, it becomes a constant source of motivation.
Community-Building: Success isn’t a solo endeavor. Collaborating with local businesses, nonprofits, and individuals has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. Building a strong network and genuinely investing in relationships has opened so many doors. My advice? Reach out, connect, and be authentic. The more you give to your community, the more it gives back to you.
Starting out can feel overwhelming, but focusing on these areas can make a huge difference. Stay adaptable, lean into your passion, and prioritize building relationships—you’ll be surprised how far it can take you!
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Absolutely! At Portable Picasso, I’m always looking to collaborate with individuals and organizations who share a passion for creativity, community, and unique experiences. Whether you’re a local business, a nonprofit, or an event organizer, I’d love to partner on projects that bring people together and inspire creativity. Breweries, coffee shops, retirement communities, and nonprofits have been some of our favorite collaborators, but I’m always open to new ideas and opportunities.
If you’re reading this and think we’d make a great team, feel free to reach out! You can connect with me through our website at portablepicasso.com or email me directly at [email protected]. Let’s create something amazing together!
Contact Info:
- Website: portablepicasso.com
- Instagram: portablepicasso
- Facebook: Portable Picasso
