35 KEYS: A MUSIC & MODEL MOGUL IN THE MAKING

There is a new face and sound in the music and modeling industry, and she is here to show us just why she SHINES! 35 Keys is blazing a trail through the entire entertainment industry on every level! With a look and style of her own, she is putting her stamp on the world of arts and is showing she did not come to play; she came to slay!

Taught at an early age, she has become exceptionally skilled in singing, piano, and bass guitar. Being an early lover of music has encouraged her to pursue her dreams and delight everyone with her one-of-a-kind unique voice, style, and overall greatness we know as 35 Keys.

She is also a mental health advocate and has been helping others overcome mental complexities and encouraging others to stride forward and not allow anything to stop you from excelling at your dreams.

Without further ado, I bring to you Kalayah Grant Aka 35 Keys!

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I first want to say thank you for this interview! We See You Shining has been following your career for some time now, and we are so excited to share a gem like you with the rest of our readers and audience.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What’s your birth name and your music name and age?

35 KEYS:

Thank you so much for having me. My name is Kalayah Grant, and I go by the music name of “35 Keys,” and I am 21.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

As our readers will soon see, at a young age you are very well experienced and knowledgable about music, which you don't usually see in this era of music. So it is very refreshing for a lot of our audience and readers.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What first got you into music?

35 KEYS:

Thank you! I love many greats that have come before us, so I would say I have an old musical soul. I first got started with music because I spent my free time listening to old

school music and live recordings on YouTube, and I was so amazed.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

How old were you when you first got into music?

35 KEYS:

I was six years old when I got into music.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

See that's what I mean, readers. She can't be anything but impressive to get into music that young and continue to carry it this long. I can't wait for everyone to hear your covers.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

When did you become 35 Keys?

35 KEYS:

I became 35Keys at a dark time of my life but mainly when my dad was 35

I remember making up the name.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

How did you come up with the name?

35 KEYS:

I came up with the name because I was very depressed, and it was such a rough time for me, and I needed a new vibe or almost alter ego.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

That is when a lot of our greatness comes about in life. Going through tough times, and not breaking, but instead strengthening and growing. I'm so glad you came out stronger on the other side of things—love and hugs to you and your tumultuous past.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Who inspires you the most through music?

35 KEYS:

I am inspired by D’angelo, Lalah Hathaway, Erykah Badu, and Alicia Keys.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Indeed these are some great artists, and I can definitely hear a little of each one of them in you.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

How would you describe the music that you typically listen to?

35 KEYS:

I listen to soulful music or just music that takes me mentally to another time

or place.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

That disconnect is real when the right music hits. You can create a whole other world in your mind.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What is your creative process in preparing to play and creating music and writing songs?

35 KEYS:

Sometimes I force myself to create. I used to really struggle to try to

get things perfect or sounding cool, but now I do whatever feels authentic

and lay down a groove and come back to it another day. I often feel like

lyrically or musically, I have to experience the message or vibe first.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Completely understood. Who would you most like to collaborate with?

35 KEYS:

I would like to collaborate with D’Angelo or Tobe Nwigwe.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I see that as clear as day. Both of those collabs would be so dope. So I'm going to claim it right now and wait patiently for the greatness.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

If you could go open a show for any artist, who would it be?

35 KEYS:

It would probably be Alicia Keys or Stevie Wonder.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What is one message you would give to your fans?

35 KEYS:

I would tell them to take that risk and follow your heart, we really only get

one life, and it could be so beautiful just keep trying! It is okay not to be like

others and not have it all together.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I completely agree. So many artists get caught up in the smoke of trying to be like their peers that they often crash and burn as a result. I'm so glad you are unapologetically, beautifully, and creatively you.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What is the best talent you have that helps you in being 35 Keys?

35 KEYS:

I have the ability to create and vibe; that is my superpower.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Indeed you do, and it appears to be effortless. I just love your vibe.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Do you sing in the shower? If so, What songs?

35 KEYS:

I appreciate it, and I sing in the shower all the time! One of my favorite songs to sing is Sweet Thing by Chaka Khan.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

That song is a classic and will last till the end of time. I know you kill it, and I would love to hear you do a cover of that song.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What else would you be interested in right now if it wasn’t for music?

35 KEYS:

I would give modeling and or acting a go.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

It seems that you are already on the modeling path, and you are killing it with your eccentric look. I can also see you on the acting scene.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What artist have you seen live, if any, and if you have, what were your favorite and least favorite shows?

Do you have any upcoming shows that you plan on attending or playing?

35 KEYS:

I have seen Erykah Badu, which was such a wonderful experience! My least favorite show was Lalah Hathway because her sound people were having troubles, but she still was killing it, and her set was short. I don’t have any

upcoming shows of my own yet, but I am working on original music. If Tyler

The Creator, H.e.r, or Alicia, is in town. I would definitely be there.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

35 KEYS:

I think it has it’s pro’s and con’s, but it is definitely beneficial if you know

how to use it right.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I completely agree with you, as with most things in this age of social media and the Internet. When did you start playing guitar and piano?

35 KEYS:

I started playing piano at age 6 or 7, I believe. I think I was about 16 or 17

when I started with bass guitar.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Starting early in music has definitely given you a leg up in the music scene. Which do you like best, live shows or IG live?

35 KEYS:

I think both are nerve-racking, but Live shows are purer and

enjoyable to me.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I can imagine, but I think as time goes on you will find them both very enjoyable. What artist or musically influenced people have you met?

35 KEYS:

I have met Lalah Hathaway and Cee Lo Green.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What is your favorite song to listen to when you are happy? What is your

favorite song to listen to when you are down?

35 KEYS:

I like to listen to Like Sugar by Chaka Khan when I am happy and; FairyTales

by Anita Baker when sad.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Fairy Tales is heart-wrenching. I can definitely see that as a sad go-to song.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Which famous musicians do you admire?

35 KEYS:

I admire Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, Robert Glasper, and Alicia Keys.

I admire them all for different reasons, but overall I think they are great

musicians that have helped me.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What indie artist do you admire?

35 KEYS:

I admire Floyd Fuji and Rimidi.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Readers, go check out these indie artists and drop a line in the comments and tell us what you think.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What is your favorite decade of music and why?

35 KEYS:

My favorite decade of music is whatever mood Stevie Wonder was in for

all his albums. That man is a real musician and storyteller that just feels me

with joy.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I completely agree with you that Stevie is a musical genius from the very beginning of his musical career. What is the first album, cassette, or cd you ever purchased?

35 KEYS:

I bought a Stevie Wonder Vinyl this year 2021 titled

“Talking Book”

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

35 KEYS:

If I could change anything in the music industry, it would be å shift or

addition to what the radio plays or what’s considered mainstream.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I agree with you there definitely needs to be a change.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What’s next for 35 Keys?

35 KEYS:

Working on original music and just creating my own system and team for

me as an artist. I am taking time to learn and find ways to make my dreams and visions come true. I am at a point where I have a pretty good idea of what I want and how it can touch, help, and connect others through my music and vibe. I pray to stand my ground and present myself to the world just as I am.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

35 Keys, we greatly appreciate your time and energy for this magnificent interview, and we look forward to more from you in the near future!

35 Keys:

Anytime! I appreciate the opportunity!

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

As a music lover, I am so excited to see all the new endeavors of 35 Keys, and I will be following up this interview with more modeling and music from her in the near future! Enjoy some of her covers of Erykah Badu, Alicia Keys, and MORE!

Follow 35 Keys at the links below:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/35keys/

YouTube Behind the Keys: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGa-qcZprrbyYy_xuyPvsNw

Website: https://behindthe35keys.wixsite.com/website

Modeling Portfolio: https://kalayahgrant.squarespace.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/35_keys

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@35keys?

SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/35keys

YouTube Music: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVOd58kyn-qOOTXv5kzAABQ

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/Behindthe35Keys

Gelina Melograno The Future of Photography and Videography

Eclectic, vibrant, passionate, and with a style and vision of her own, Gelina Melograno from Fort Mill, SC, known on Instagram as @kinggelina, has recently taken the fashion photography world by storm. Only four years in, she is already achieving artistic greatness. Capturing her subjects in award-winning poses, she has magazine-worthy shots that have gained her an internship with the notable Elan Model Management out of Charlotte, NC.

Achieving a degree in videography from York College, SC, she is taking photography and videography to the next level. Her gift for encouraging people to be comfortable in their skin and letting their personality shine through film and video sets her apart from others in her field. Whether shooting with a Canon or a Sony, she is sure to get the perfect shots she needs to capture her subjects in a rhythmic form.

Following Marina Williams and others, Gelina Melograno is taking charge, putting her stamp on the artistic world. Let’s see how she started, where she currently is, and where she’s taking her gift of photography and videography.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Whose work has influenced you most?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

Marina Williams is a photographer who shares her work across multiple social media platforms. She is always trying new things and constantly challenging herself to step outside of her comfort zone. Outside of her actual photography, she offers classes for beginners in the craft or those trying to turn their passion into a career. She’s not afraid to be vulnerable in her struggles with creativity, and I think it’s essential for those who influence others, to be honest with their own struggles.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I am not familiar with her, but the way you describe her, she seems to be very proficient in her craft. I've been interested in photography for a while. She seems like a good person to start with in my studies. I will be reading up on her and following her career.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Why did you choose to pursue a career in photography?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

Truthfully, my career in photography was an accident! I met Ms. Harriet, the owner of Elan Model Management, while working on a project for my class, and we really hit it off. She's given me so many opportunities to work on my craft with the company, which has led to so many opportunities outside of this internship. I fell in love with my photography again and realized I could use this craft to make others happy and feel more comfortable in their body.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I want everyone to know that I met you through Harriet at a model call she was having, and she is such an inspiration to so many people. She also gives so many people opportunities that they may not receive otherwise. She is truly a great individual, and I see her company Elan Model Management going a long way. Kudos to Harriet for our divine connection! [Laughs]

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

So, what is your fav camera?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I use a Canon 80D, and it’s what I feel most comfortable with as it works well with both photography and videography. I did have an opportunity to work with a Sony Model, however, and loved the results from that shoot.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I hear FUJI is taking over in the camera field. A lot of people are choosing it over NIKON. I have to be the judge of that myself real soon!

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What is your fav lens, and why?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I only own zoom lenses, so that’s what I use most often, but I had the opportunity to work with a cinematic lens a few years ago, and I think I’m still chasing the high from that.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I see! I would love to see more work from you with a cinematic lens. It is one of my favorite lenses that I've seen other photographers use. Among your works, what is your fav and why?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I feel that this photoset is my favorite more for sentimental value than anything else, but a few years ago, I did a self-portrait experiment where I was shirtless. At the time, I was very uncomfortable in my body and was struggling with my feelings towards the person I was seeing. They gave me a flower on our second date, and I did a photoshoot highlighting my body and using the flower as a prop. I fell in love with the photos, and it gave me a better appreciation for my body.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

That is the exact kind of inspiration people need to hear and read about in this era. With so many filters and editing programs often times the subject no longer looks like their true selves after the prints post. It is incredible that you are pushing for self-love of yourself no matter what others may look at you and perceive.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What tools do you use for post-processing?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I always use Lightroom to edit my photos, but sometimes if I’m trying something interesting, I will take the edited photo into Photoshop and experiment with the tools there as well.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

The one thing I love about your photography is your editing allows the subjects to look like themselves. That is very rare in today's photography.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

How long have you been a photographer?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I’ve been a photographer for four years. I started when I was a junior in high school when I got my first camera and just did small shoots with my friends every once in a while. My career didn’t take off until I started my internship with EMM, and I was able to take my craft more seriously and force myself to learn more and better my photography.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Again Harriet Washington, for the win! [laughs]

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What are your career goals?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I think I would always keep photography as a side gig. I love the freedom that comes with working with a client based on our schedules and limitations without worrying too much about profit. I would love to work with a fashion company or modeling agency where I can learn more about the fashion world and help show off models that maybe aren't seen as often.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I think you are right on track, especially with your degree in videography. It will be a lot of doors opening for you in a lot of areas. Also, your internship with EMM models is an excellent gateway to the fashion and modeling industry.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Where do you see yourself in 5yrs?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

In five years, I see myself working for a small company in Atlanta where I can continue to practice my craft while enjoying the creativity of the city. I feel that people should always be surrounded by art in some way. I think that working on my art in the city would be a wonderful way to do that. In five years, I would love to maybe have my own independent production business as well.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I see that in your future. Nothing but success will be in your pathway.

GELINA MELOGRANO:

Thank you! I am striving to be the best I can be.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What photo editing program do you use?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I use Adobe Lightroom to edit my photos.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Again, I like how you don't over-edit your photos. That makes you stand out from the other photographers currently in your field.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What is your favorite style of photography?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I love portrait photography as I feel that it’s what I’m most skilled at; however, I would love to practice nature photography as I always love to combine the two worlds by keeping my subjects in nature.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What is your favorite subject to photograph?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I always love working with models that challenge themselves with their style. Finding unique ways to incorporate the outfit makes the photo interesting and different. People love to show their personality through the outfit’s they wear and trying to find a way to allow movement with the outfit always makes for a fun shoot.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What does photography mean to you?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I use photography as a way to connect with people and show anyone how beautiful they can be. A lot of times, when I ask to take pictures of someone, their immediate response is that they’re not photogenic or that they don’t think they would look good. My favorite part of my photography is seeing the joy on someone’s face when they see how good they look when they relax and have fun during a shoot.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

That falls in line with you making them feel comfortable in their skin. I love it all.

GELINA MELOGRANO:

Exactly!

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What makes a good picture stand out among other average pictures?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I think a good picture is something that catches the eye by doing something outside the rulebook.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

You definetly have a lot of those shots and I hope everyone loves them and sees the beauty in them as much as I do.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What inspires you?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I think above all nature really inspires me. I always feel like I do my best work when I’m outside and I have an ineresting enviroment to play with.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What kind of gear do you use?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

My camera is a Canon 80D, and I have 85 and 50mm zoom lenses, though I’m looking to upgrade soon. I dont often bring a tripod to a shoot unless I’m working with a lot of movement, but its always a nice thing to have on hand.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

How do you manage difficult clients?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I’m lucky enough to not face difficult clients very often, but when I do I have to remind myself to not overexert myself for people that aren’t going to value the effort. In a competitive field like this, I feel as though a lot of people don’t feel comfortable turning down opportunities, but its important to build ’t feel comfortable turning down opportunities, but it’s important to set boundaries.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

How do you educate yourself to take better photos?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I follow a lot of photographers on Instagram to help me come up with ideas for shoots. A lot of times the artist will also explain how they did something as far as taking the photo, and I believe that’s a great learning tool.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

How would you describe your photography style?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I’m not sure if I’ve really discovered my style as a photographer yet. Right now I really focus on making sure my photos are full of color and light, as well as taking a few with interesting backgrounds or angles.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Did you go to school to study photography?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I’m in school now studying to be a videographer, and while there, I took a couple of classes for photography.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What’s the most challenging part of being a photographer for you?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I think coming up with ideas and learning is very hard. Sometimes when you learn something new, you have to let go of what you’ve been comfortable doing, and while that is very exciting, it can also be scary.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Fear of the unknown is real. It takes a lot to step back from everything you know and to branch out into something different. I commend you for being brave enough to do so. A lot of people will stay in the same lane forever, and that limits you in the long run.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What is the most rewarding part of being a photographer?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I love hearing feedback from the models or people about the pictures, especially from whoever is in the photo getting excited about how they look. It makes me happy knowing that I caused that.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

What do you like least about being a photographer?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I don’t like how dirty I get trying to get an interesting angle. I’m on the ground a lot!

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Where is your dream place to take photos, and what would be your subject?

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I would love to take photos in Venice, Italy. I’ve always wanted to go, and I think there’s so much color and life there, it would make for beautiful photos.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Those will be some gorgeous pictures. With the path that you are on, I see you in Venice, Italy, sooner than later!

GELINA MELOGRANO:

I hope so! [laughs]

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

Gelina, I greatly appreciate you taking the time for this interview. I want you all to take the time to enjoy these gorgeous shots from Gelina and stay on the lookout for her in the future! She is going to be a force to reckon with at the top of her field. Remember We See You Shining said it first!

GELINA MELOGRANO:

Thank you for the opportunity, and I appreciate you believing in me and my craft. I also look forward to our upcoming photoshoot.

WE SEE YOU SHINING:

I look forward to it as well!

Gelina is willing to travel to you for photoshoots, but fees may apply depending on the distance. She can be contacted at:

Instagram: @kinggelina

Art By TheArtKing "All Real Things..."

Military Veteran, Art creator, Jeweler, copper enthusiast, and more, he went from sacrificing his life to protect the United States of America to gracing homes, businesses, and hearts with his passion for creativity, style, and his pursuit for greatness. The world of Art is blessed to have the presence of a man not only of good character and leadership but of a skill set that is rarely recognized while the person is still with us.

Often, most artists are invisible until after they transition from the earthly world to beyond. We See You Shining wants to give this artist his flowers while he is on earth to enjoy them.

Take this moment with me to recognize this creative being that goes by the nickname of Art and see how his journey began and where he sees it going.

We See You Shining:

What is your real name and nickname?

ART:

My real name is Arthur Perkins, no middle name. I go by Art, which means All Real Things. An amazing friend of mine gave me the abbreviation.

We See You Shining:

When I was younger, it always seemed weird when people didn't have a middle name, but as I get older, I love being weird, so no middle name is pretty normal, I guess. [laughs] It's also very original of your friend to incorporate your gift into your nickname. I love acronym nicknames.

At what age did you decide you wanted to be an artist?

ART:

[Laughs} You know I love being weird as well, so no middle name fits me.

I knew art was for me when I was around 10 years old. I loved the way an image would come together as I was drawing it.

We See You Shining:

Since becoming an artist, can you see yourself doing anything else?

ART:

I can see myself doing many things, but art is a passion that will always be there. It's my stepping stone to my greatness.

We See You Shining:

Yes, I see that as well. Your commissions are incredible, and your realism art is impeccable. You are indeed on your stepping stone to greatness.

Do you have any hobbies or do anything besides create art?

ART:

Besides art, I create handmade jewelry, and I also work with a black-owned business where we maKe handmade copper jewelry. I also enjoy studying healing stones/crystals, and I love being out in nature.

We See You Shining:

What's your tip or the best way you maintain a life/work balance? Do you struggle with it? When do you know you lack balance?

ART:

My best tip for a good life/work balance is never to rush your creativity. To me, creativity has a flow to it. I may go a couple of months without painting, then crush 4 or 5 works of art in a row. Life will always happen, but it's up to you to decide how you respond. Onward and upward.

We See You Shining:

Has there been a specific time that you recall wanting your voice heard? Did you express it through your art?

ART:

It was 2011 when I decided that I wanted to be heard, and my art was the perfect vessel to do so.

We See You Shining:

Art is always an excellent way to be heard inaudibly. I think your voice is being heard through your art, and as the readers read on and view your work, they will hear it as well.

Do you have a network of other artists you rely on - and what do you do to support each other?

ART:

Thank you very much. I do my best to be true to my spiritual guidance and staying me unapologetically.

I have a network of artists that I learn from, and we are always creating opportunities for each other whenever we have a chance. I've been in a music video, showcased at an art gallery, even a brand ambassador of an up-and-coming clothing line. I surround myself with other creatives, and the love is genuine.

We See You Shining:

Do you have long-term goals? Are they written down or how do you revisit them and make sure you are moving along that path?

ART:

I do have long-term goals that include me being in the position to invest in other creatives. I have multiple journals that I constantly add to because over the last 2 years, the goals that I thought to be long-term were accomplished. So I continue to build, continue to evolve.

We See You Shining:

What's your most significant barrier to being an artist? How do you address it?

ART:

My most significant barrier is only myself. I compete with myself. I want to be the best...I AM THE VERY BEST at what I do. And I say that with zero arrogance. It's a mindset and a belief that anyone can adopt.

We See You Shining:

Said very wisely, we are often our own best or worst enemies. There is a sense of peace and growth in knowing we are only trying to better ourselves against our own work/creations.

Who do you partner with to achieve your goals? Is it a formal network/agreement or fluid/organic?

ART:

It's not so much a partnership but a friendship. The individuals I deal with honestly want to see me win, and I want to see them succeed as well.

We See You Shining:

Have you ever said 'no' to an opportunity? How did you decide to say no? What made you choose to say no?

ART:

As of yet, there has been no opportunity that I have turned down concerning art. I think the reason is that I don't like to move in fear. On the other hand, some opportunities have seemed way too big for me until it was completed.

We See You Shining:

Do you have a favorite artist, and if so, how have they inspired you?

ART:

My favorite artist is Kevin A. Williams. Watching his style and technique in his paintings has inspired me to push harder and dig deeper to not just paint but to paint with meaning and purpose.

We See You Shining:

Kevin A. Williams, ok, I have to check him out, and I encourage the readers to as well.

How do you determine what to charge for your art or services?

ART:

I usually charge my work or commission by size and medium. For example, 16x20 framed pastel drawing would be between $150 to $250

We See You Shining:

What is your favorite style of art to create?

ART:

My favorite style is figurative art, specifically, black men and women. I am depicting the strength, the power, the curves, the absolute beauty of black people.

We See You Shining:

I thought that because it shows in your work. The forms, silhouettes, and depth of colors speak a ton.

Is any of your art in a gallery? If so, what is the name?

ART:

Yes. My art is currently on display at Gallery on Main 100 S Main St, High Point, North Carolina 27260. I encourage all to stop by.

We See You Shining:

Ok, readers, show Art some love at Gallery on Main, where he has his beautiful work on display for viewing and purchase.

Do you work on a lot of commission pieces?

ART:

Commissions have picked up a lot lately, for which I am always grateful. The idea that someone looks at my art and wants it in their home is still so amazing to me.

We See You Shining:

How did you set your current rates?

ART:

My rates these days are set on how much time I have available and the size. The bigger the size, the less time I have to take on other commissions, which will ultimately affect the rate.

We See You Shining:

How do you cultivate your audience?

ART:

To be honest, I don't think I cultivate my audience. I paint what is beautiful to me, and other people gravitate to it.

We See You Shining:

Indeed, like energies attract, meaning greatness attracts greatness.

When do you love creating the most?

ART:

I am a night owl; most of my work is created late evenings. However, it also depends on how I feel. I have had paint sessions last 4 hours, and other times last 12 hours.

We See You Shining:

Do you feel that the art community has challenges, barriers, and assumptions?

ART:

There may be some challenges but nothing that can't be overcome. It's all about your focus and what you want. How determined are you to get to where you want to be.

We See You Shining:

Is there something you do today that you wished you had known to do years ago?

ART:

Not at all. Life is an amazing journey that takes many paths to learn lessons and grow. I wouldn't be the man I am today had I not learned those lessons in the exact way that I did.

We See You Shining:

When the above question was posed to a fellow creative, he stated the same thing. It is so empowering when you are not defined by your past nor shackled to moments in time that were meant to teach us growth. I've heard it said it's ok for everyone to have a bad day, just don't allow a day to become a bad lifetime.

Are your goals driving you towards money and fame?

ART:

Money and fame, maybe. But when you move in, your purpose and ambition, money and sometimes fame, is a by-product.

We See You Shining:

Another jewel dropped.

What does generosity mean to you as an artist? How do you emulate this?

ART:

Generosity to me means being grateful for where you are in life and building on it, so you can help others do the same. We all are meant to be great in our own way.

We See You Shining:

The joy I feel in giving is unmeasurable, so I relate to everything you are saying.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

ART:

In 5 years, I see myself in my own art gallery, a world-renowned artist. I see myself as I see myself now...TheArtKing

We See You Shining:

Art, I greatly appreciate you giving me your time and eclectic energy in this interview, and We See You Shining sees you only going up from here.

We See You Shining:

There you have it in a nutshell. TheArtKing has let us know how it started, where it is and where it's going. I will be keeping a close eye on this dynamic artist, as should you, and don't forget to check his work out at Gallery on Main, 100 S. Main St., High Point, NC 27260

He can personally be contacted at:

Etsy: artbyartstudio.etsy.com

Instagram: @artbyartking

Facebook: @ www.facebook.com/artbyartone

Twitter: @artbyart1