Today we’d like to introduce you to Chelz.
Hi Chelz, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My name is Chelz and I’m a self-taught visual artist. I’m originally from New York City, but I’ve spent a majority of my life in Atlanta. I’ve considered myself an artist my entire life, but it took me a while to realize how much potential was really there. As a kid, I dreamt of creating my own world and being my own boss. I would experiment with different mediums, especially digital, just to see how things worked and looked together. Thanks to one of my grandfathers, I’ve always been pretty tech-savvy as well. He would build computers and teach me all about them. I would play with software programs to create designs and imaginary publications. Fast forward to my teenage years when MySpace was at its peak. I taught myself how to code so that I could have a really cool profile page and eventually learned how to code websites and software.
Despite me being exposed to various forms of creativity, I ironically never really got a chance to learn from a professional, so I couldn’t imagine a life as a professional artist. It wasn’t until I went to college at THE Alabama State University that I was really introduced to art as a career and not just a hobby. I was in a sorority that allowed me to make flyers and signage for campus events. It wasn’t long before local party promoters and event curators saw my work and started reaching out to me for larger projects. I started learning more about graphic design and expanded my portfolio to logos, websites, and other digital services. After a few years of evolving into a more multifaceted artist, I took a leap of faith a decided to work for myself full-time in 2021.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’ve definitely had lots of setbacks and struggles on this journey. One of the biggest obstacles I’ve had to overcome was gaining confidence in myself as an artist. I’ve always known I wanted this as a career but I didn’t always feel strong in my choice to do so. When I really started taking steps toward establishing my career, I was nervous that no one would like or buy my art. I overthought every decision I made and became my own worst critic. I was also scared of going through the “struggling artist” phase, not realizing that it’s a pivotal part of the journey.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in graphic design, mixed media, and fiber arts. Currently, I’ve been more focused on my fiber arts. I create one-of-a-kind hand-tufted rugs using yarn and a tufting gun. I’m mostly known for my abstract use of vibrant colors and unique shapes on different mediums. Some of my most popular pieces are decoupage collages, logos, cover art, and custom rugs. My clients come to me because of my ability to make aesthetically pleasing art with uncommon and unlikely combinations of art supplies. This allows me create with no limits or boundaries.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success, to me, is achieving your personal AND professional goals. It’s about creating a stable foundation that you can build on. It’s about creating a life that is not only sustainable but enjoyable. I don’t believe it’s measured by the tangible assets that you have but rather the people you inspire, the movements you create, the doors that you can open.
Contact Info:
- Website: bomchelzzz.com
- Instagram: www.Instagram.com/bombchelzzz
Image Credits
Sir Carlton
