We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tisha Taylor a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Tisha , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
One evening, returning from my 9 to 5 job, I felt overwhelming misery and sadness. Recognizing a void in my life, I spoke aloud, asking the universe for a sign to guide me back to art. Soon after, I stumbled upon a Craigslist ad selling brushes for two dollars. Upon reaching out, I discovered they were offering an entire storage locker of art supplies. It became clear – this was my purpose, a sign that I was meant to be an artist.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I’m Tisha Taylor, the owner of Taylored Faces And Balloons LLC. After graduating from Moore College of Art and Design with a major in illustration and a minor in fine arts, I gained industry insights by working with various face painting companies then later created my own. During quarantine, unable to continue my 9 to 5 job or run my face painting business, I returned to painting on canvas. I now create custom portraits and sell my own original 3D acrylic paintings .I also paint live at weddings and large events. This decision opened new doors, leading to collaborations with companies, my first solo art show after twenty years, and media coverage from channels 29 and 6. Now, my artwork is featured in galleries across the United States. I’ve done multiple paintings for celebrities like the Pink lady from California, musical artist Bilal, and Charmaine from black ink Chicago. I’ve also been able to work with politicians and Philadelphia and collaborate with my community businesses creating events. My future aspirations include participating in Art Basel Miami, traveling for solo shows, to be in a museum ,and further expanding my artistic journey by collaborating with more companies and giving it back to my community.
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?
Solid advice for aspiring artists!
Ensure you have a contract in place when dealing with customers to clarify expectations.
Paint live whenever possible, whether in person or on social media, to build your company and clientele.
If web design isn’t your forte, consider getting assistance to create a user-friendly website as your clientele grows.
All the wisdom you’ve shared today is sincerely appreciated. Before we go, can you tell us about the main challenge you are currently facing?
My most significant challenge has been navigating dyslexia, particularly in writing responses for magazine articles and grant applications. Despite having compelling ideas, I often feel deterred when faced with the grant application process. To overcome these obstacles, I’ve turned to AI programs and decided to seek assistance from individuals capable of crafting the grant application information on my behalf.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.TayloredFacesPhilly.com
- Instagram: Taylored__Faces
- Facebook: Artist Tee Taylor
- Other: Tik Tok: Taylored__Faces
Image Credits
Photography:Brandon Tyrone Holiday Photography: Nina Hurwitz
