We had the good fortune of connecting with Crystal Riha and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Crystal, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m from Tucson Arizona but have relocated to Tempe in the past year. I grew up in a very artistic family so I was always painting or creating some form of art. I continued to pursue my passion as I grew up and now it’s a passion of mine and favorite way to pass time. I’ve always been surrounded by people that keep me motivated in pursuing my art career, whether that be making purchases, sharing my work with others, or even just complimenting me on my art. I have a special place in my heart for each and every one of you who continue to support me. I would not be able to be here without all of you, so thank you, from the bottom of my heart!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a fine arts and mixed media creator at heart, but I’m always up for trying something new. I’ve been making art since I could hold a brush but it wasn’t until 2021 when I decided to make my passion into a small business. It began with selling prints and stickers of my Copic marker and ink work. Soon after, I started working with acrylic paints on cow skulls, which quickly became one of my signature pieces and a clientele favorite. From there, I’ve dabbled in just about everything: custom artwork on lighters, handmade jewelry, resin pours, pottery, murals… you name it. If I haven’t tried it yet, I probably will.

While art is a huge part of my life, it’s not my full-time career. Like many artists, I know the challenges of making a living solely through creative work, especially when you’re the only one handling every detail behind the scenes. By day, I’m a student working toward my A&P License to become an aviation mechanic, with hopes of earning my pilot’s license someday. By night, I trade paintbrushes for cocktail shakers, working as a bartender and server.

One thing is for sure though, no matter where life takes me, I’ll never stop making art.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I recently moved to Tempe, AZ, so I’m still learning where to go myself. A lot of our time would be spent finding new places together! We would definitely start our morning stopping at TopFuel for some coffee though. Then check out all the shops down Mill Ave, like Plant Mill, which is a local plant nursery whom also sells other local artist work. If the Tempe Festival Arts is happening, we would definitely visit that as well. We could also check out all the shops in old town Scottsdale, and if we’re feeling up to it, maybe stop at Old Town Ink for a tattoo. Then grab something to eat at Board and Brew afterwards. From there… probably go home to recharge and decide if we want to go back out.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Brew Station Coffee Co in Tucson, AZ is an amazing coffee shop on the East side of Tucson. Run by Gabe Watson, making amazing drinks and selling other local artists, artwork. Including mine, which was one of the first shops to do so!

Instagram: crystalriha.creations

Image Credits
N/a

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