Meet Shakira Mclain

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shakira Mclain. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shakira below.

Shakira , thank you so much for joining us today and appreciate you talking about a sensitive topic. It’s unfortunately relevant to so many in the community as layoffs have been on the rise recently, and so we’d appreciate hearing your story and how you overcame being let go?

A couple of years ago, I went through a rough patch when I was fired from my job. I never got a clear explanation for why, but I figured it was because the new manager just didn’t like me. After about two weeks of unemployment, I managed to land another job, thanks to an old co-worker’s help. However, within a month, the owners informed me that I “didn’t fit the vibe or aesthetic” of the shop. Shortly after, my hours were cut, and I found myself out of a job again.

This experience took a toll on my mental health, especially since I already struggle with depression. I felt a deep sense of failure. There were some highs, like having the freedom to sleep in, more time to myself, and a bit more relaxation. But the lows hit hard—I constantly felt guilty for not being productive. My creative side took a backseat because I was anxious about my dwindling savings and mounting bills, and creating art felt like a luxury I couldn’t afford.

For about five to six months, I was without a job, and in that time, I had to learn some difficult lessons. I realized the importance of prioritizing myself and being kind to myself. Therapy became a crucial part of my journey, helping me rediscover the joys in life and reminding me that my mental well-being is a top priority. By taking time for myself, embracing the small joys, and working through my challenges in therapy, I’ve been able to overcome these difficult circumstances. While the experience still lingers, I’m in a much better place now—stronger, more self-aware, and committed to protecting my mental health.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am a self-taught ceramic artist with a foundation in fashion design, having earned my BFA in the field. Though I began in fashion, my passion evolved as I discovered the joy of working with my hands—especially through the tactile, transformative process of creating art with clay. Ceramics allows me to connect more deeply with the materials, exploring shapes, textures, and emotions in ways that fashion design never did.

Right now, I’m navigating a period of significant transition in my life. I’m in the process of shifting careers, moving from my role as a full-time art teacher to pursuing a new path as a real estate agent. It’s a challenging but exciting change, one that’s pushing me to grow and adapt in different ways.

At the same time, I’m deeply committed to uplifting BIPOC artists. I’m working on building a program that provides a platform for their voices, helping them showcase their art and share their stories. This project is incredibly important to me, as I believe in the power of representation and the need for more diverse perspectives in the art world. You can follow this initiative on Instagram at @artistwoartists, where we highlight the incredible work of BIPOC creators.

On the creative side, I’m delving into more conceptual art, working toward exhibitions with the hope of one day hosting my own solo show. It’s a long-term goal, but one that keeps me motivated. And, to add another layer to my journey, I’ve also begun considering opening my own ceramic studio—a space where I can create, collaborate, and build a community centered around the craft I love so much.

Balancing all these facets has been both exhilarating and challenging, but each pursuit is driven by my love for art and my desire to build something meaningful. I’m excited for what’s to come, and I’m committed to seeing all these projects through.

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?

I believe the most important skill that has been impactful on my journey is consistency. I always tell people, you have to keep going, you have to keep pushing. Even when your world feels like it’s falling apart, maintaining that consistency is key. It’s what keeps you moving forward when everything else feels like it’s crumbling.

The second skill that uplifts that consistency is discipline. After a long day at work, it can take a lot of effort to sit down and create art. Some days it’s hard, and other days it comes easily, but having that consistent discipline helps build a routine. However, it’s just as important to recognize when your body needs rest. DO NOT FEEL GUILTY for resting—it’s science! Your body needs rest to function. I never try to create art when I’m angry or too tired—it never turns out well.

Finally, the last and perhaps most crucial skill is passion or love. Without love for your work, there’s no point. If you’re not passionate about what you’re creating, you’ll end up making art for others, and the lack of sincerity will show.

For anyone starting their art journey, my advice is: take your time. Learn what you enjoy and talk with other artists! One of the things I love about the art community in Savannah is how they support one another. Also, don’t be afraid to “copy” other artists. When I say copy, I don’t mean plagiarize their work. I mean analyze their techniques—study them, try to replicate them, and figure out what you like and don’t like. Incorporate what resonates into your own style. And don’t feel like you have to stick to just one style. I create based on what I enjoy and what I feel inspired to make in the moment. We are not a monolith, so don’t create like you are one.

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 am seeking BIPOC artists across all mediums who would be interested in being interviewed for a project aimed at amplifying their voices. It is incredibly important to me to highlight the perspectives of BIPOC artists, as I’ve noticed that people of color are often underrepresented in the art world. There are so many talented individuals whose stories deserve to be shared beyond just their artwork, and I want to help bring more visibility to that. The goal of Artists2Artists is to emphasize this by providing a platform for BIPOC creators to be seen and heard. They can reach out to me through my Instagram @stuckonadoorknob or my email: shakira@adinamclain.com

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.michaels.com/makerplace/storefront/stuckonadoorknob
• Instagram: stuckonadoorknob
• Youtube: stuckonadoorknob