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

Hi Shakia, why did you pursue a creative career?

I never planned on pursuing a creative career. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic my husband suggested I sell some pieces to make room in our home for future works. I hesitated initially, as we had a one year old and recently discovered I was pregnant. The thought of sharing something so personal elicited intense feelings of anxiousness. I began painting in 2018 to cope with symptoms of PTSD. The panic attacks, depression, and hyperarousal were exhausting. I had survived a home invasion, and found myself trying to grasp at any shred of normalcy. I could not bring myself to even unlock the front door without feeling like my heart would explode. I found myself replaying the moments of that Sunday evening and constantly wondering how differently the event would have turned out if I had been alone, made a sudden move, or if my dog had lunged at them. Reliving begging three armed men not to shoot my dog, the sense of hopelessness as they destroyed my home, or the anticipation of being shot in the face as I turned my head to get one last look of my significant other was excruciating.

Painting was the only thing that quieted my mind. It’s a form of meditation, and a constant in my life during times of adversity. My creative business provided incentive to remain consistent in the practice. I’ve continued building this creative career because I’ve realized that my purpose is to encourage others.I feel immense pressure as black woman to be the strong one, not show any weakness, and quietly carry the burdens of others. I didn’t grow up feeling like there was space to express my perspective or experiences. My work emphasizes that there is beauty and strength in vulnerability. I know that not everyone has experienced trauma in this form, but many can relate in the shared experience of crippling depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Hopefully I can be an example to someone dealing with trauma or anyone that has felt like their dreams were suffocated by their circumstances.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

I’m a self-taught oil painter that specializes in creating ethereal florals and whimsical landscapes. I started selling original oil paintings less than 2 years ago. Within a few months of opening an Etsy shop I began receiving commission requests. I don’t know that anything could’ve prepared me for the response to sharing my artwork. My solo exhibit debuted March 4, “In Bloom” which consisted of 22 oil paintings in Downtown Louisville, KY. My oil paintings are on display in private collections across 28 cities and 16 states.

As a mother of two (Kingston 2 1/2, Naomi 1), and full-time special education teacher, I’ve learned that carving out pockets of time is crucial. I rarely get hours of uninterrupted time to work on my business, so I do as much I can in 30-60 minute increments. Working a full-time job in addition to growing a business is a reality for many. I hope that as people learn more about me and my journey they realize that it’s possible to learn something new, participate in the arts, and turn your passion into income.

My work is deeply emotional, and painting is a form of meditation for me. There are times when I’m not able to verbalize what I’m going through or the pain I may be feeling in a moment. However, by the end of a painting session I gain clarity, insight and space from any stress or negativity occupying my mind.

Currently, I’m really excited that I’m able to make a living, and provide healing to others through something that nourishes my spirit. It’s something that I do not take for granted. My proudest moment was standing in the middle of a packed room watching strangers soak in my artwork the opening night of my solo show. Then being able to have my children, close family, and friends present made it even more special. The majority of the evening I felt like I was observing the reception from outside my body. It was surreal yet thrilling.

When choosing floral subjects I’m most inspired by movement and volume. Whereas with landscapes the color and movement of the sky grabs my attention first. I start most of my paintings with a contrasting underpainting to set the tone for the piece. I’ll choose a bright colors that pop to remind myself not to be so serious. At this point I start to compose and decompose the subject using loose brushstrokes, bold, and saturated colors until the painting comes alive. Many of my paintings feature my signature runs and impassioned drips.

I want the world to know that even though my artistic journey started in a dark place, my paintings represent the celebration of human imperfection and resiliency.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

I would start with a quick tour of Lodgic Louisville workspace in downtown Louisville, to view their monthly exhibits. I would then follow up with a night of laughter at the Louisville Comedy Club, and end the evening with reservations at the Black Rabbit Speakeasy.

When the weather permits, it’s always a good time to getaway to Keeneland in Lexington, KY or participate in one of the countless bourbon distillery tours in the area.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?

First and foremost my husband Mitch. He believed in me and pushed me when I was too afraid to own my artwork in public. He’s an endless source of support and my number one cheerleader. He recognizes the role painting plays in my mental health journey, and doesn’t think twice about occupying the two kids and three dogs for me to paint for fun or business. Whether it’s attaching dust covers, bringing me snacks during a session, or being my personal delivery person, his unwavering support and encouragement have enabled me to reach nationwide collectors.

I’m also extremely grateful to Marlesha Woods, National Equity in Arts Director of Lodgic Everyday Community for the opportunity to exhibit my artwork, and share my story. There are so many people like me that have had their dreams suffocated by their circumstances. Her cause-driven initiative to “do a little good everyday,” will change many lives.

Website: shakiaharrisart.com

Instagram: shakiaharrisart

Facebook: shakiaharrisart

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3jQCZ7ULItL5s0L3uG_XQ

Other: shakiaharrisart@gmail.com for inquiries

Image Credits
Julia Youngblood – 2 photos from exhibit reception

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