By Michron Robinson
Detailed and meticulous are two words that 21-year-old visual artist Kiera Beckles lives by and she strives daily to allow her super powers of precision and creativity to show in her artwork.
Beckles always had a passion for art and self-expression and she found that while wrapping up studies for her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree at the Barbados Community College (BCC) earlier this year that people started to express an interest in the work she was creating.
And even though profits are not her main motivation she said that selling her work generates an income stream and also allows her the opportunity to share more of herself with the world.
Speaking with Barbados TODAY she explained how her journey in creative entrepreneurship began as the owner of the online Kie Studios.
Beckles admits enjoying the “meticulous planning” that comes with preparing to create, whether it is in printmaking or painting. But she also noted that people are very central to her expression as an artist and somehow ignite an inner
flame.
“The ideas and suggestions people share with me spark my creativity and the urge I possess to learn new things,” she said.
The interest shown by people in her work is central to her vision for Kie Studios and in the near future she hopes to collaborate with other women in the same field and women creatives in general.
While her focus is to get exposure for her fine art studio she said that a long-term vision is to own her own decor business.
As with any business, there are challenges but Kiera says that she’s found a way to deal with them as they pop up.
“As a new business owner, learning the basics of how to conduct business and aspects of business management have been difficult. Asking my peers, superiors and other business owners for advice and help has helped me to deal with those difficulties.”
Even with the challenges, Kiera says that she knows she’s getting closer to answering her calling.
“My drive is intense and knowing I had this specific goal I was working towards has increased my work ethic and my ability to persevere even when I feel like giving up and changing direction.”
Simple habits that she practices even with the challenges of being an entrepreneur help to keep her inspired.
“I consume a lot of media such as reading books and magazines, watching videos and live streams, listening to music, and especially having conversations with my peers…”
And for those looking out for her work, she promises that they will be blown away by it.
“I am extremely meticulous when it comes to creating work. I try to make work of the highest quality,” she added.
The artist also encouraged other young women looking up to her, not to allow fear to stop them.
“Self-doubt, along with persons doubting your abilities are some things you will encounter, but please know that you are supported, and people believe in you, even if from a distance. Don’t stop creating and sharing it with the world.”
(MR)
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